Commonwealth Games Australia CEO Craig Phillips under fire

Phillips has faced criticism over the rising cost of the 2026 Commonwealth Games

Phillips has defended the cost of the Games, saying that they will be a "once-in-a-lifetime" event for Victoria

Commonwealth Games Australia CEO Craig Phillips has come under fire over the rising cost of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Victoria.

Phillips has defended the cost of the Games, saying that they will be a "once-in-a-lifetime" event for Victoria and will leave a lasting legacy for the state. However, critics have argued that the Games are too expensive and that the money could be better spent elsewhere.

The Victorian government has also been criticized for its handling of the Games. Premier Daniel Andrews has been accused of not being transparent about the cost of the Games and of not doing enough to hold Phillips accountable.

The Commonwealth Games are scheduled to be held in Victoria from March 17 to 29, 2026. The Games are expected to attract more than 6,000 athletes from 72 countries and territories.

The total cost of the Games is estimated to be $2.7 billion. The Victorian government is providing $1.5 billion of this funding, while the federal government is providing $1.2 billion.

The Games are expected to create 6,000 jobs and generate $1.7 billion in economic activity for Victoria.