QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Senator WONG (South Australia—Minister for Foreign Affairs and Leader of the Government in the Senate) (14:41): I thank Senator Mckenzie for the question. As I think I have indicated to her and perhaps to Senator Cash in relation to similar questions over the previous months, this government does not tolerate corruption, criminality and violence in any part of the construction industry.

We have taken action to clean up the industry. I have spoken in this place about the work that the administrator has undertaken with multiple referrals from police and regulators and over 100 active investigations. In relation to the incoming royal commission and special prosecutor, which I think was the majority of the primary question, I note that the Victorian government has announced plans for the royal commission.

We certainly will continue to work with the Victorian government as details emerge. You would be aware we have been asked questions previously about what Minister King has done to ensure no corruption on government projects, and I remind the Senate that we have ensured that Minister King has written to her state and territory counterparts on multiple occasions, reinforcing their obligations, including the need to report instances of suspected criminal behaviour or corruption to the relevant regulator and to the department.

She has also written to government, business enterprises involving involved in the delivery of Commonwealth led infrastructure projects, outlining expectations that all instances of suspected criminal behaviour or corruption are reported to the relevant regulator and department. We have sought assurance that procurement and contracting parties are achieving value for money off public funds.

(Time expired) The PRESIDENT: Senator Mckenzie, first supplementary?