Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has left the door open to Chinese investment to help finance the state’s massive Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) project during her ongoing trip to China.
On Tuesday, the second day of her visit to Beijing, Ms Allan repeatedly declined to rule out Chinese funding, telling reporters she would “have more to say” later in the week.
In a speech launching her “China Strategy” on Monday, Allan emphasised that her mission was to “seal the deal” on investment for public transport and renewable energy projects. She declared that “Victoria is open for business” and aims to be the “first port of call for Chinese businesses to invest, innovate, and partner with the Victorian community.”
Also on Tuesday, Allan announced nearly half a billion dollars in Chinese investment in Victoria’s renewable energy rollout. Trina Solar has committed $453 million to build a 500-megawatt battery storage project in the Kiewa Valley in northeast Victoria.
Opposition Leader Brad Battin said any agreements struck by the Allan government must be thoroughly scrutinised, accusing Labor of previous $50 billion cost blowouts and corruption scandals on major projects. Battin added: “We don’t care where investment comes from, but Labor sent a message to the world that Victoria can’t be trusted when it tore up the East West Link contracts.”
The prospect of Chinese funding for the SRL is expected to remain a flashpoint in Victorian politics, with economic and geopolitical implications under close watch.
