CFMEU faces corruption probes in Queensland, NSW, and SA

The CFMEU's construction wing is currently under scrutiny for alleged corruption and criminal connections across its branches in Queensland, New South Wales, and South Australia, with an additional inquiry in Victoria. This follows an interim investigation led by barrister Geoffrey Watson SC, which revealed serious concerns about the union's operations, including potential links to outlaw motorcycle gangs. The interim administrator, Mark Irving KC, has accepted all of Watson's recommendations and is now empowered to conduct a more extensive investigation. Irving has expressed his commitment to addressing the issues raised, stating that he will establish an Integrity Unit to systematically investigate the numerous allegations against the union. This includes the creation of an anonymous whistleblower service to encourage reporting of misconduct within the CFMEU and the broader construction industry. The investigations will focus on various forms of alleged wrongdoing, including kickbacks, the influence of organized crime, and violent behavior. Watson's report highlighted a troubling culture within the Victorian branch, where violence was reportedly normalized and used as a negotiation tactic. The findings have prompted Irving to broaden the scope of the inquiry to include labor hire practices and the potential for illegal payments. The investigations aim to uncover the truth behind these allegations without presuming guilt on the part of those involved. The CFMEU's leadership, including national secretary Zach Smith, initiated the review prior to the union entering administration, indicating a proactive approach to addressing the serious allegations. The outcome of these investigations could have significant implications for the union's future and its role in the construction industry.