2. How we conducted this review

The Auditor‐General provides independent assurance to the Parliament of Victoria and the Victorian community on the performance of the state and local government public sectors. As part of this limited assurance review, we ask agencies to update us on their implementation of our performance engagement recommendations each year. This provides transparency on government activities where no legislative requirement exists. 

1. What we found

We consulted with the audited agencies and considered their views when reaching our conclusions. The agencies’ responses are in Appendix A.

Are agencies accepting our recommendations?

Acceptance rate

 

2. Is the Metro Tunnel Project progressing as planned?

Conclusion

The tunnels and stations main works are currently progressing as planned and RPV and CYP’s systems for monitoring and achieving project requirements are effective. 

However, the overall project is facing time and cost pressures and RPV has allocated almost all its MTP contingency funds. RPV has also descoped some MTP signalling works and wider network enhancements. RPV also needs to formalise agreements with precinct stakeholders to implement EMI mitigations before train testing starts in June 2023. 

1. Audit context

The Metro Tunnel Project (MTP) is a $12.58 billion investment in Melbourne's passenger rail system. RPV is delivering the project. This report focuses on the main works package, which includes the twin tunnels, 5 new underground stations and other relevant construction.

CYP is delivering the design and construction of the tunnels and stations works package under a public–private partnership (PPP) contract signed with the state in December 2017 for $5.08 billion. The amended contract signed in December 2020 resulted in the state committing to pay up to an extra $1.37 billion.