The Allan Labor Government has been caught advertising a taxpayer-funded executive position with eye-watering wages of up to $400,000 a year for a body that does not yet legally exist, when Victorians are already paying some of the highest taxes in the nation.

The job listing for a Multicultural Coordinator-General, the top job at the proposed new “Multicultural Victoria” entity, has been advertised offering a salary package of up to $400,741, while the Deputy Coordinator-General roles have been advertised with packages of up to an astounding $268,488 for what is a part-time position.

This is despite the legislation needed to actually create the roles still not having been introduced to Parliament.

Shadow Minister for Multicultural and Multifaith Affairs Evan Mulholland said the timing exposes a government determined to lock in appointments before voters get their say at the November election.

“The Allan Labor Government’s arrogance is off the charts,” Mr Mulholland said.

“They haven’t introduced the bill, they haven’t briefed the Opposition or the crossbench; no debate, not even a discussion, but they’re already advertising a four-year, $400,000-a-year job as if Parliament’s approval is a mere formality.

“Victorians are sick of watching Labor stack the public service and blow taxpayer dollars on excessive executive packages while families struggle, yet Labor’s response is to open the door for another jobs-for-mates appointment on their way out.”

Mr Mulholland said the Liberals and Nationals support the broader goal of strengthening multicultural engagement in Victoria but are placing both the government and any prospective applicants on clear notice.

“Let me be very clear: if Labor tries to parachute a partisan pick into this role before the election, they should not assume the position is safe. An incoming Wilson government reserves every right to scrap the contract,” he said.

“We will not let Labor stack the public service on the way out the door.

“Advertising a highly paid, four-year executive role for a body that Parliament hasn’t even debated, let alone approved, tells you everything about how desperate this government has become.”

The Liberals and Nationals are calling on the Allan Government to immediately pause the recruitment process, table the legislation establishing Multicultural Victoria, properly brief the Opposition and crossbench, and maintain the roles on an interim basis until the election, so an incoming government can appoint the right people with proper due diligence.

Jess Wilson MP

Leader of the Opposition

Leader of the Victorian Liberal Party

Member for Kew