Here’s a useful video explaining complex things with handy slides

No doubt you’ve noticed todays media is full of East West Link palaver we had more than an inkling about since 2013. The project would of cost $22.8 billion if it had proceeded.

Victorian Auditor-General’s Office – East West Link Project Tabled: 9 December 2015

This audit examined whether the state had effectively managed the East West Link (EWL) project by assessing the total costs of the project, appropriateness of advice supporting key project decisions and the lessons for future major projects. The audit included 10 government agencies.

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Over the life of this costly and complex project, advice to government did not always meet the expected standard of being frank and fearless. This highlights a risk to the integrity of public administration that needs to be addressed. The report makes recommendations to the Department of Treasury & Finance to provide guidance for development and delivery of major projects and for the Department of Premier & Cabinet to emphasise requirements for frank and fearless advice from the public sector.

Media Release: Victorian Auditor-General’s Office: Audit finds East West Link project compromised by flawed advice

Acting Auditor-General Dr Peter Frost tabled the East West Link Project report today. This audit examined whether the state had effectively managed the East West Link (EWL) project by assessing the total costs of the project, appropriateness of advice supporting key project decisions and the lessons for future major projects.

Peter Frost said, ‘The EWL project was terminated in June 2015 with more than $1.1 billion paid, or expected to be paid, by the state for little tangible benefit. This cost includes expenditure on the planning, development, procurement and termination of the project and will be partially offset by future proceeds from the sale of properties acquired for the project. Continue Reading…