The Victorian Liberals and Nationals have referred Daniel Andrews’ unlawful political advertising to Victoria’s anti-corruption watchdogs.
Yesterday, the Victorian Auditor-General stated that millions of dollars’ worth of Andrews Government advertising was political in nature and breached Victorian laws.
In spite of these findings, Premier Daniel Andrews has stated that he “would not hesitate to run that campaign again” and has refused to repay the money misused by his government.
In addition, the creation and approval of these ads potentially breached impartiality requirements under Codes of Conduct for both Victorian Public Sector Employees and Ministers and Parliamentary Secretaries.
These ads were unlawful and Victorians deserve to know who decided to approve them, why and with what motivations.
Whilst in 2019 the Ombudsman and IBAC declined to fully investigate these matters, the Auditor-General’s findings and the recent opening of an investigation into the politicisation of the public sector justifies further consideration.
Shadow Minister for Police Brad Battin said Victorians deserve the truth as to how millions of dollars were allowed to be spent on unlawful and improper ads.
“Daniel Andrews has been caught out breaking his own laws and treating people’s money as his own.”
“Victorians deserve the truth as to how and why this occurred.”
“These issues should be looked at as part of the Ombudsman’s investigation into the politicisation of the public sector, so Victorians get the answers they deserve.”
Brad Battin MP
Shadow Minister for Police