Andrews government axes Parliamentary Budget Officer Anthony Close

An integrity officer who wrote a report criticising the Andrews government has been axed, despite parliament recommending he remain in the role.

It’s understood Tim Pallas refused to extend the officer’s appointment. Picture: Andrew Henshaw

The Andrews government has moved to axe one of Victoria’s key integrity officers.

Parliamentary Budget Officer Anthony Close has been told his contract won’t be renewed despite a parliament recommendation that he continue in the role.

The Herald Sun has confirmed the Public Accounts and Estimates Committee recommended the government extend Mr Close’s appointment.

But he has been told he will finish in the role on Sunday.

It is understood Treasurer Tim Pallas refused to extend Mr Close’s appointment for the recommended two years, saying he could only be reappointed for four years.

Since being appointed at Victoria’s first PBO, Mr Close assisted all parties with independent advice and costings.

He has also raised concerns about the government’s economic position and budgetary processes.

“This should be seen as a political hit by Labor to remove Anthony – who has turned out to be a thorn in their side,” one source said.

Victorian Treasurer Tim Pallas with Premier Daniel Andrews. Picture: Nicki Connolly

“The government’s action in this regard will put all integrity agency heads on notice that they are not safe in their roles.

“The impact of this decision is that from next week Victoria will not have a Parliamentary Budget Officer for an unknown period of time until a new one is identified.”

The move comes just a month before Victoria’s next state budget.

In 2021 Mr Close published a bombshell report that accused the Andrews government of hiding the state’s true financial affairs from Victorians.

He also lobbied for more funding and greater powers.

Greens leader Samantha Ratnam said Mr Close had “provided invaluable transparency and scrutiny where necessary around government policies and spending”.

“It is extremely disappointing to have him leave the role,” she said.

“Our dealings with him have demonstrated a high level of professionalism and a commitment to the independence of the office.

“The government has on numerous occasions shown its displeasure at the scrutiny the PBO has placed on them. It is very concerning to see the head of an independent body pushed out by a Labor government seeking to avoid scrutiny.

“For our independent bodies to provide effective oversight and scrutiny they need to remain exactly that – independent.”

Shadow Special Minister of State David Davis said the government’s decision was a blatant attempt to silence its critics.

“Another day and another blow to integrity in Victoria under the Andrews government,” Mr Davis said.

“By sacking a highly respected and independent integrity officer the government has shown it will go to any lengths to silence its critics.

“The Premier must explain why he has backflipped on Mr Close’s position just months after he exposed serious financial mismanagement within the government.”