Jacinta Allan resigned as Premier of Victoria on July 28, 2026, following mounting pressure over corruption allegations in the state's $109 billion infrastructure program, known as the Big Build. The scandal, involving criminal infiltration by the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU), led to significant cost blowouts and productivity issues. Allan's decision to step down aimed to prevent a protracted leadership contest ahead of the November state election.
Allan's tenure was marked by ambitious infrastructure projects intended to modernize Victoria's transport and housing sectors. However, these initiatives were overshadowed by allegations of corruption within the CFMEU, which had infiltrated the Big Build. Reports indicated that Allan was briefed on these issues in June 2023, yet she initially attributed cost overruns to inflation rather than corruption.
The CFMEU's involvement reportedly led to an estimated $15 billion in taxpayer losses. Despite calls for a royal commission to investigate these allegations, Allan resisted, arguing that such an inquiry would delay necessary actions.
Facing a leadership challenge from Deputy Premier Ben Carroll, Allan chose to resign to avoid a prolonged contest that could destabilize the party ahead of the election. Carroll is expected to succeed her unopposed, with Allan offering her full support for his leadership.
The resignation has significant implications for Victoria's political landscape. The incoming leadership under Carroll will need to address the corruption allegations, restore public trust, and navigate the upcoming election. The public and political observers will closely monitor how the new leadership handles these challenges in the coming months.