Victorian AG wants role broadened

Victoria's top auditor has called on both major parties to commit to overhauling his role, saying taxpayer dollars spent on private contracts is escaping scrutiny.

Auditor-General John Doyle said governments are now using contracts and partnerships to deliver many taxpayer-funded services.

But this money and the services provided remain off the radar because Victoria's audit legislation has not been updated, he said.

"This means Victorian citizens are prevented from knowing how well their money is being spent," Mr Doyle said in his 2013/14 annual report tabled in parliament on Thursday.

Mr Doyle said there have been many times when he hasn't been able to scope an audit as he would've liked because of these limitations.

A parliamentary inquiry recommended changes to the law governing the auditor-general's role more than four years ago yet no changes were made, he said.

"A full rewrite of the Act is absolutely necessary to make the most of the role of the auditor-general," he said.

"I am seeking commitment from both the government and the opposition that this will be a priority of the 58th parliament."

There are 21 public-private partnerships operating or being built in Victoria with another four being procured.

Deputy opposition leader James Merlino said if Labor is elected at the November state election, it will work with the auditor-general to ensure any legislative change will be provided to him so he has powers to "follow-the-money".

"The government made a commitment to deliver these powers to the auditor-general and they have failed miserably," he said.