Master Builders ACT has renewed calls for an urgent review of the Territory’s procurement system following the Integrity Commission’s Operation Kingfisher findings into the Campbell Primary School Modernisation Project.

The Integrity Commission found the procurement process was compromised by improper influence from a ministerial office and the CFMEU, resulting in Lendlease being selected over Manteena despite Manteena consistently receiving higher value-for-money assessments. The report found serious corrupt conduct by former director-general Katy Haire and former ministerial chief of staff Joshua Ceramidas, but cleared both construction companies of wrongdoing.

Master Builders ACT chief executive Anna Neelagama said the findings confirmed long-standing concerns that the ACT’s procurement system was not delivering value for money and required greater fairness, transparency and independence.

The industry body also backed recommendations to strengthen the independence of procurement processes and improve transparency around the Secure Local Jobs Code, while calling for an independent review of the code and faster implementation of the Local Industry Participation Plan.

‘Serious corrupt’ finding against two government officials

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