Stoush brewing over Commonwealth Games funding

A Nationals senator has blasted the Andrews government’s “incompetence” ahead of a new inquiry into how much taxpayers will be slugged for the regional Victorian event.

Victoria’s preparation ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games will come under the microscope of a new Senate inquiry, with the opposition warning the state is at risk of losing its reputation as a world-class sporting event host.

A stoush is also brewing over how much taxpayers will be slugged, with the federal government expected to set aside money in the May budget to help the state host the regional event.

The 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Brisbane will also be investigated, after the Coalition on Thursday gained support from the Greens for the inquiry.

There are questions being asked of Victoria’s preparation for the Commonwealth Games. Picture: Supplied

Opposition infrastructure spokeswoman Bridget McKenzie said the probe would call on state governments, their departments and sporting bodies.

“Victoria is at risk of losing its global reputation as a world class sporting event host as a result of the delays and the incompetence of the Andrews Labor government,” Senator McKenzie said.

“Local councils out in those regional areas of Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Latrobe Valley and Shepparton still have no clarity from the state government on projects, design and planning.

“Given the budget position of Victoria, there is growing concerns that they are going to be asked to do more.”

Opposition infrastructure spokeswoman Bridget McKenzie says Victoria is at risk of losing its global reputation as a world class sporting event host. Picture: Getty

Investment in new or upgraded sporting and transport infrastructure, costs and benefits from the events, planning for visas and accommodation, as well as consultation with sporting organisations will be among top issues addressed as part of the inquiry.

The Herald Sun this month revealed the Victorian government was using the state’s woeful share of recent infrastructure spending to argue for $1.3bn in funding from the Commonwealth.

But the Albanese government is understood to be hesitant to provide funding for work already earmarked by the state.

A spokeswoman for Infrastructure Minister Catherine King said: “The Australian government is working closely with the Victorian government to consider funding and delivery arrangements for the 2026 Commonwealth Games”.

The committee is expected to report back by September 1.

Originally published as Stoush brewing over Commonwealth Games funding