Watchdog ponders new ‘red shirts’ rort probe

Four years after Labor was forced to apologise and repay $388,000 over the ‘red shirts’ rort, a new investigation looms.

A possible fresh investigation into Labor’s notorious “Red Shirts” election rort has moved closer with the state’s integrity watchdog confirming it was considering this month's referral from parliament for a new probe.

Ombudsman Deborah Glass said the referral from the Legislative Council — initiated by dumped Labor minister Adem Somyurek — was now under review by her office.

The referral requests Ms Glass investigate the “Red Shirts” scheme for a second time, but now probe the role of the Premier in the scheme, the ombudsman’s office confirmed in a statement.

In the ombudsman’s original investigation, the watchdog found the Victorian ALP engaged in an “artifice” to use $388,000 in public funds to pay for Labor campaign staff during the 2014 election.

In Tuesday’s statement, the ombudsman indicated she may not launch a fresh full-blown investigation unless her investigators uncover new evidence.

The Somyurek referral also requests that the ombudsman and Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission investigate alleged misuse of taxpayer funds in ALP.

Ms Glass said parliament could refer any matter to her office, but she retained the ultimate authority to decide if an investigation was required.

Ms Glass said she would consult with IBAC on some of the matters in the referral including those in relation to her joint investigation with IBAC, Operation Watts, into allegations of branch stacking levelled at Mr Somyurek.

“I will consider the extent to which the matters subject of the referral have already been investigated or are currently being investigated,” Ms Glass said.

“The public needs to have confidence that public resources are not being misused for political ends, and, as always, any investigation I lead will be independent and based on evidence.

“I have a discretion to investigate as I see fit, and I will refer matters and share information as appropriate and in accordance with the Ombudsman Act.”