A commission of inquiry probing allegations of a criminal underbelly and intimidation tactics in the CFMEU has begun after a report revealed the union’s unwavering pursuit of political and financial power.
Queensland’s 12-month commission of inquiry into the construction union began on Friday, helmed by experienced industrial relations lawyer Stuart Wood KC.
The inquiry was launched after a damning report revealed serious allegations of “thuggery” in the Queensland branch, detailing occasions of union members calling safety inspectors “f***ing dogs”, intimidating women and children.
Bob Gee, who is taking leave from his role as director-general of the Youth Justice Department, will act as secretary in the inquiry.
Mr Wood will have the power to compel witnesses to give evidence and documents to be tabled to the inquiry, as well as protecting victims and whistleblowers.
“All Queenslanders deserve workplaces that are safe, respectful and operate within the framework of the law,” Mr Wood said on Friday when the inquiry began.
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie denied claims that Mr Wood’s alleged links to the Liberal National Party as a member would hinder his role, saying there was no better qualified for the role.
“He has to do his job independently, impartially and fairly,” he told reporters on Friday.
The CFMEU was placed into administration nationwide last August amid claims bikie and organised crime figures had infiltrated the organisation.
But a report by barrister Geoffrey Watson, a former counsel assisting for NSW’s Independent Commission Against Corruption, uncovered serious claims of abuse and intimidation in the Queensland branch.
Mr Watson found details that scratched the surface of the CFMEU’s “relentless” pursuit of political, industrial and financial power.
It was revealed that the CFMEU in Queensland was willing to “crush” anyone who opposed its aims and there was an “obstinate refusal” from some witnesses to provide evidence.
The inquiry has broad terms of reference, looking at instances of misconduct making workplaces unsafe for women and the systemic nature of misbehaviour by current and former CFMEU leadership figures.
It will also probe the involvement of organised crime within the CFMEU and the broader construction industry and irregularities in financial dealings by the union.
A financial audit by investigator KordaMentha in June uncovered the Queensland branch had a $272,946 “unexplained variance” between the cash balance and bank statement.
It found CFMEUQ paid $5.5 million to suppliers in August 2024 but this is inconsistent with the monthly profit and loss statements that show expenses totalled $1.5 million.
The inquiry is also set to investigate the impact of misconduct on Queensland’s economy and construction of housing and transport infrastructure, including the Bruce Highway, Gold Coast Light Rail, Cross River Rail and Centenary Bridge.
Mr Bleijie said 12 months was enough time for the inquiry to investigate matters under its terms of reference.
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