Today would have marked the opening ceremony of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Victoria – a moment that should have showcased our State to the world and delivered lasting benefits for regional communities including Bendigo.
Instead, Victorians are left with a $600 million bill and a broken promise after the Labor Government abandoned the Games, The Nationals’ Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad said.
“Premier Jacinta Allan and Labor wasted $600 million of taxpayers’ money chasing votes with an event it appears they had no intention of ever delivering, and we are now paying for Glasgow to host the event.” Ms Broad said.
“In April 2023, together with Senator Bridget McKenzie in Bendigo, we asked questions about how the Commonwealth Games were being funded. In response, Jacinta Allan said there was no truth of budget concerns or timeframe issues. She said they were making great progress, and the Games would be a chance to showcase regional Victoria on the international stage.”
Yet in July 2023, the Government completely cancelled the Commonwealth Games.
“The Premier, who is also the former Minister for Commonwealth Games Delivery, was either not across her portfolio, or mislead the public. Either option is a bad look, so it’s not surprising that the Premier refused to appear before the Parliamentary inquiry.”
“In a further blow, recent media reports have revealed that Bendigo could have been in line for a $50 million venue complete with a dining area, air-conditioning and provision for national broadcasting abilities.”
Ms Broad said regional cities including Bendigo were promised new sporting facilities, housing and community infrastructure as part of the Games legacy.
“Yet projects that were meant to be completed by now are still under construction. This means that Labor will be cutting ribbons close to the election at the end of the year.
“This is a complete letdown for the regions.
“For many in regional Victoria, the cancellation wasn’t just about sport – it was about jobs, economic activity and long-promised upgrades that would have benefited the community for decades.
“As we approach the next state election in November, I hope that all Victorians remember the promises that were made and broken, and left Victorians paying the price.”
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764 linda.barrow@parliament.vic.gov.au
