Victoria’s attorney general has publicly condemned integrity expert Geoffrey Watson SC, who suggested that corruption within the Construction, Forestry and Maritime Employees Union (CFMEU) has cost taxpayers no less than $15 billion. This assertion is drawn from Watson's report, "Rotting from the Top," which was submitted during a Queensland inquiry into the union. Watson characterized the $15 billion estimate as based on rough calculations from credible sources within the industry and underscored the implications of such corruption on public infrastructure financing.

Watson explained that his estimate arose from an analysis suggesting that the overall cost of the Big Build public infrastructure program in Victoria, valued at approximately $100 billion, was potentially inflated due to CFMEU-related misconduct. Industry stakeholders reportedly indicated that these cost overruns could range between 10% to 30%, leading Watson to conclude that a 15% estimate for costs stemming from corruption was not only reasonable but possibly conservative. The attorney general's response indicates a stark division between government views on the claims regarding union corruption and the assessments provided by integrity experts.

The implications of Watson’s claims are significant as they touch on broader issues of corruption, accountability, and the financial impact on public projects in Victoria. If Watson's estimate is accurate, this could lead to greater scrutiny of the CFMEU and provoke discussions about necessary reforms within the union to safeguard taxpayer interests. The contentious exchange highlights the ongoing debate over union governance and the integrity of public spending amidst efforts to enhance transparency in governmental and non-governmental organizations.