In the aftermath of the CMFEU scandal, Victoria's anti-corruption watchdog has confirmed that it declined a referral for investigation from the state premier regarding alleged corruption linked to the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU). This decision highlights the limitations of the watchdog's authority, which has been called into question following accusations that the government's negligence has led to significant financial losses for Victorian taxpayers—estimated at a staggering $15 billion.

In response to these developments, the Victorian Greens are mobilizing support for new legislation aimed at broadening the powers of the state's anti-corruption body. Their proposed 'follow-the-money' laws are designed to ensure that the watchdog has the necessary authority to investigate and address corruption within significant institutions, including trade unions. The push is particularly aimed at securing backing from both the Labor government and the Liberal opposition, indicating a potential bipartisan effort to enhance accountability.

Premier Jacinta Allan has defended her actions in response to claims of underworld connections influencing major construction projects, maintaining that appropriate steps were taken when potential wrongdoing was brought to her attention. While the Greens' initiative seeks to create a more robust framework for tackling corruption, the ongoing debate reveals a deeper conflict over how political entities in Victoria handle issues of accountability and transparency in the face of serious allegations against powerful unions.