1 day ago
2
Premier Jacinta Allan has cancelled an appearance at a key social services event to hold a press conference promoting the government’s Metro Tunnel project.
Allan was scheduled to appear alongside Opposition Leader Brad Battin on a panel hosted by Victoria’s peak body for social and community services to discuss her vision for the state.
Premier Jacinta Allan held a press conference about the new Metro Tunnel stations on Monday morning instead of attending a social services event, where she was due to speak. Credit: Luis Enrique Ascui
She was listed on the Victorian Council of Social Services website and scheduled to speak to VCOSS chief executive Juanita Phillips at 10am Monday, but did not end up taking part in the panel.
Instead, she went to a press conference about the completion of the new Metro Tunnel train stations, arriving at the new State Library Station just after 10.15am for an 11am start.
Treasurer Jaclyn Symes spoke at the VCOSS event in her absence.
Allan told organisers she could not attend due to a meeting with the prime minister.
Inside the State Library Station.Credit: Wayne Taylor
She later clarified that she gave priority to the Metro Tunnel press conference ahead of the VCOSS event.
The premier held a similar press conference at the Town Hall Station on Sunday, before flying to Sydney to attend the NRL Grand Final. She arrived back in Melbourne on Monday morning.
Loading
VCOSS represents the social and community sector in Victoria, describing its mission as working towards a state free from poverty and disadvantage.
Battin attended the event and fielded questions, from what was described as a “tough crowd”, about his plans to combat the rise of far-right extremism, his positive visions for Victoria and the impact of lowering taxes on vulnerable people.
The $15 billion Metro Tunnel project is expected to open to passengers later this year, with a soft launch using limited, off-peak services.
Allan has so far refused to give a firm opening date for a full-service timetable, not expected to be implemented until February.
Most Viewed in Politics
Loading
