The Royal Commission into the Integrity of Major Public and Civil Infrastructure Construction Projects in Victoria opened in Melbourne, launching a formal inquiry into alleged corruption on the Big Build sites.

A notably critical report, Rotting from the Top by Geoffrey Watson SC, alleges CFMEU misconduct and estimates taxpayers could have absorbed about A$15 billion in losses, with CFMEU officers facing penalties totaling over A$10 million for 1,163 industrial-law breaches in the years leading up to August 2024.

Three documents were tabled at the outset, including a memo that warned former premier Jacinta Allan about organised crime and serious misconduct related to the Big Build three years ago.

The commission pledges maximum transparency and stressed its independence from political timing, indicating the inquiry will proceed with or without the election schedule.

Counsel assisting the inquiry are Chris Young KC and Christopher Carr SC, with a government reporting deadline set for 20 August 2027.

A core aim is accountability: once projects are committed, authorities must manage contracts competently, mitigate risks, and ensure senior officials alert ministers to issues.

If a Coalition government wins in November, the commission is expected to continue, potentially adding two commissioners and widening its scope to include unions and the incentives behind the Big Build across geographies.

Public hearings will be held openly and livestreamed, subject to occasional private sessions at the commissioner's discretion.

A 2023 ministerial briefing memo flagged industrial-relations issues on public job sites, with notices to appear likely for those named.

Commissioners have broad power to compel witnesses, including current or former premiers, ministers, officials, union leaders, and corporate executives, to assist the inquiry.

The commission’s mandate covers calls to politicians, advisers, public servants, union leaders, and building firms, with potential involvement from figures such as Jacinta Allan and Daniel Andrews.

Associate commissioner Peter Tantalos outlined the scope to address alleged wrongdoing including blackmail, bribery, intimidation, improper processes, and nepotism.