Workplace Health and Safety Queensland inspectors are now on the stand as part of an ongoing inquiry into alleged misconduct within the construction union and the broader industry. The hearings, currently in their fourth round, aim to examine claims of undue influence and improper dealings.
Workplace Health and Safety Queensland operations manager Deborah Dargan testified that complaints originating from the union were consistently treated with a high degree of priority. This revelation surfaces as the inquiry, established after a damning report leveled allegations of "thuggery" against the CFMEU's state branch, scrutinizes the relationship between the union and the regulatory body.
"The Commission of Inquiry will conduct an impartial inquiry into claims of misconduct related to the CFMEU and construction industry and make recommendations to the Queensland Government based on its findings."
Regulatory Interaction Under Scrutiny
The inquiry's focus has reportedly broadened to include former directors of construction compliance, with Helen Burgess identified as a particular point of interest. Evidence presented previously has touched upon a "troubling history" involving former CFMEU state secretary Michael Ravbar and an ousted official, Jade Ingham. These accounts suggest attempts by Ravbar to consolidate union power, including efforts to enlist other officials to support his objectives.
The probe has also delved into the union's alleged tactics to hinder competition from the Australian Workers Union (AWU) on civil construction sites. Testimony has alluded to the CFMEU's alleged use of intimidation and attempts to subvert established workplace safety regulations in Queensland.
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Inquiry's Genesis and Scope
This extensive examination was formally initiated by the Queensland government in July, following the release of a report that detailed serious accusations against the state's CFMEU branch. Public hearings commenced in October, with the inquiry's terms of reference encompassing a wide range of alleged misconduct within both the union and the wider construction sector.
Senior figures, including barrister and integrity campaigner Geoffrey Watson, have already provided evidence. The inquiry has also hosted testimony from industry leaders and union administrators, with further appearances from prominent figures expected. Proceedings are being livestreamed to allow public observation.
Historical Context and Allegations
Earlier stages of the inquiry have involved examinations of a CFMEU administrator's report, with particular attention paid to allegations concerning a former Labor minister allegedly directing his department to negotiate with the union. In a separate development, inquiry staff conducted an unsolicited visit to a Gold Coast traffic management company, citing potential links to underworld identity Mick Gatto. The company has reportedly stated it received no prior notification and insists its operations are legitimate.
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The AWU, whose state secretary Stacey Schinnerl has given evidence, has outlined escalating hostility from the CFMEU. Schinnerl reportedly described the CFMEU's actions as a "ludicrous stickering campaign" and detailed perceived attempts to pressure her organization. Her testimony also highlighted jurisdictional differences, with the AWU claiming broader representation rights on civil construction sites compared to the CFMEU's more occupation-specific coverage.