A new corruption report shows political influence can be bought in Victoria. 

Victoria’s Independent Broad-based Anti-Corruption Commission (IBAC) has exposed a web of corruption, showcasing how a millionaire property developer, John Woodman, allegedly funnelled hundreds of thousands of dollars to gain influence over politicians and council members in Victoria.

The Operation Sandon report, following a five-year investigation, uncovered a range of dubious practices, from bags of cash delivered to City of Casey councillors to clandestine meetings at a Subway restaurant, and even a politician's lavish lunch at a Chinatown restaurant after a significant political fundraiser bid.

IBAC deputy commissioner David Wolf said Operation Sandon was a “pivotal moment” that revealed an “unambiguous breach of public trust” that “had a reputational ripple effect”, with the conduct “epitomising what communities loathe from their public representatives”.

The report detailed how Woodman sought to sway politicians across party lines, making significant donations to both major parties and hosting private fundraisers. 

Premier Daniel Andrews, although not directly implicated in any wrongdoing, faced scrutiny for his association with Woodman and his involvement in private lunch events.

The damning report revealed how Woodman manipulated Casey councillors by providing them with financial benefits, amounting to over half a million dollars each, in exchange for their support on rezoning projects. 

The investigation even caught Woodman coaching councillors and supplying them with scripted arguments to further his interests.
The City of Casey has welcomed the release of the report, saying it has been focused on delivering integrity and transparency reforms while working with investigators since 2020. 

“We have also undertaken reviews of historical decisions and, where necessary, have retracted decisions, with a focus on cancelling inappropriate funding agreements and rescinding non-value adding international arrangements,” said City of Casey’s Chair of Administrators, Noelene Duff.

Woodman's influence extended beyond councillors, as he sought to lobby state government decision-makers by funding lobbyists and establishing community groups that seemingly represented locals but were, in fact, advancing his commercial interests.

IBAC's report called for a crackdown on lobbyists and tighter regulation of councillor codes of conduct, suggesting the government consider banning donations from property developers to restore transparency and trust in the political process.

The findings prompted concern across the political landscape, prompting IBAC to make 34 recommendations to address the corruption. 

The state government is now under pressure to act swiftly and decisively to address the issue and implement necessary reforms.

The full IBAC report is accessible here.