Landmark CFMEU inquiry launches in Brisbane after damning probe
A landmark inquiry will begin today, after an explosive report levelled allegations of thuggery at the state’s CFMEU branch.
The man who handed down a shocking CFMEU report will take centre stage at a powerful inquiry triggered by his damning probe.
Barrister and integrity campaigner Geoffrey Watson will give evidence on Tuesday at the landmark CFMEU inquiry in Brisbane, four months after releasing his explosive report.
The Queensland government called the inquiry in July after the stunning report levelled allegations of thuggery at the stateâs CFMEU branch.
The string of disturbing incidents alleged in the report included a worker being chased with an angle grinder, safety inspectors being called âf***ing dogsâ, and women and children being intimidated.
Mr Watson, a former counsel assisting for NSWâs Independent Commission Against Corruption, noted his probe might have only scratched the surface of the CFMEUâs ârelentlessâ pursuit of political, industrial and financial power.
The report claimed Queenslandâs CFMEU was willing to crush anyone who opposed its aims, with an âobstinate refusalâ from some witnesses to provide evidence.
The inquiry has been probing broader misconduct in the construction industry as well as within the CFMEUâs state branch since public hearings officially launched in October.
Mr Watson will be the focus when it resumes on Tuesday, with CFMEU administrator Mark Irving KC set to appear on Thursday.
The CFMEU was put into administration nationwide in 2024 amid claims bikies and organised crime figures had infiltrated the organisation.
The embattled unionâs leadership was removed and placed under the control of administrator Mr Irving KC.
Premier David Crisafulli had described the inquiry as a âonce-in-a-generation opportunityâ to restore safety and productivity on Queensland work sites as they prepared to roll out major infrastructure ahead of the 2032 Olympics.
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âThis is about the CFMEU, about a seedy, rotten, broken culture of bullying, of intimidation, of misogyny, of deliberately driving down productivity, and we have to change that,â he told reporters.
The 12-month commission of inquiry is being helmed by experienced industrial relations lawyer Stuart Wood KC.
He will have the power to compel witnesses to give evidence and documents to be tabled to the inquiry, as well as protect victims and whistleblowers.
-with AAP
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