Opposition calls investigation into jobs-for-mates board appointments under Andrews government

More than 30 ex-Labor MPs have been parachuted into plum taxpayer-funded board roles under the Andrews government. Now the opposition wants “jobs for mates” appointments probed.

Martin Foley has landed two plum board positions. Picture: Ian Currie

The state opposition has called for an investigation into jobs-for-mates board appointments under the Andrews government.

Since coming to office in 2014, more than 30 former Labor MPs and ministers have been hand-picked to sit on taxpayer funded boards.

They include former health minister Martin Foley who was this week appointed to chair the Melbourne Arts Precinct Corporation, a $150,000 role.

Former deputy premier James Merlino, and former ministers Lisa Neville and Jill Hennessy have also recently been appointed to boards.

Former Attorney-General and sports minister Martin Pakula is tipped to take over as chair of the Australian Grand Prix.

The government has defended its appointment process, saying more than 14,000 appointments have been made since 2014.

But Opposition Leader John Pesutto said questions needed to be asked over a jobs-for-mates culture.

“Time and again, the Andrews government hand-picks former MPs and friends for plum taxpayer funded public board positions,” he said.

More than 30 former Labor MPs have been hand-picked to sit on taxpayer funded boards under the Andrews government. Picture: Jason Edwards

“The total lack of transparency and process surrounding these appointments should concern all Victorians.

“We believe these cases must be included as part of the Ombudsman’s investigation into the politicisation of the public service under the Andrews Government.”

Shadow Special Minister of State, David Davis, on Friday wrote to Victorian Ombudsman Deborah Glass calling for a formal investigation.

Ms Glass is already conducting a probe into the alleged politicisation of the Victorian public service.

“Boards of governance of Victorian public entities also have influence often exceeding that of executive positions in the Victorian public service and, the Opposition believes, appointments to such boards also warrants your consideration as part of your Politicisation of the Public Service investigation,” Mr Davis said, while listing dozens of government appointments.

“We would argue this is ample evidence of an emerging trend of people with a political affiliation being appointed as directors and chairpersons of Victorian public entities,” he said.

“We therefore respectfully request that the scope of your investigation into the politicisation of the public service be expanded to include: the implications of an allegation that there is an emerging trend of people with a political affiliation being appointed to executive positions in the Victorian public service.”

James Merlino was appointed chair of the Suburban Rail Loop Authority. Picture: Jason Edwards

Mr Davis said it could not be argued that former MPs were never suited to appointment to the board of a public sector entity.

“Clearly, some former MPs and ministers have skills and professional knowledge that is applicable and does equip them with the skills and capacities to make a contribution to such entities,” he said.

“What is important is that appointment processes are open and competitive and that appointments do not default to former MPs of the same party as the government and that those appointed have the relevant skill sets.”

On Friday, Daniel Andrews flagged the board appointment of a former Liberal government minister.

A government spokesperson said appointees endured a thorough due diligence and probity process led by the respective department.

“There have been over 14,400 board appointments since 2014 — each selected on merit and the basis of their diverse backgrounds, gender and ethnicity to ensure our boards reflect the Victorian community,” she said.