Episode Details

The cost to scrap Victorias Suburban Rail Loop East has surged by $1.7 billion, following a new operations contract with the TransitLinX consortium. This contract, set to run from 2035 to 2050, adds to the existing $6.7 billion deal for construction. The projects total cost now stands at $14.5 billion, with $2.5 billion already spent on early works and tunneling set to commence soon. Government officials defend the contract as best practice, ensuring the same team handles design through operations to prevent overruns. However, opposition leader Jess Wilson vows to review the project if her coalition wins the November election, citing financial recklessness and the need for alternative infrastructure in growth areas. The projects build contract value has increased to $7.4 billion, with taxpayers contributing $6.7 billion after refunds. Victorias net debt has reached over $160 billion, with forecasts predicting it to rise to $192.6 billion by 2028-2029.

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