Royal Commission Hears CFMEU Had Significant Influence Over Victorian Government

A royal commission investigating corruption allegations on Victorian Big Build projects has commenced hearings focusing on the influence of the Construction, Forestry and Maritime Employees Union (CFMEU) and its links to the Daniel Andrews Labor government. The inquiry is examining the integrity of major public and civil infrastructure construction projects, specifically looking at a 2022 level crossing removal project at Gap Road in Sunbury, north of Melbourne.

During the opening block of hearings, counsel assisting the commission, Chris Young KC, stated that 20 witnesses have been compelled to appear. However, he warned that some parties have failed to comply with orders to produce documents, citing government policy as a delay tactic. Young highlighted evidence showing that construction companies feared putting the CFMEU offside due to its close ties with the state government.

Documents presented to the inquiry included a 2017 email from John Holland, a company involved in the Gap Road project, noting the significance of the union's relationship with the Andrews government. The notes suggested that the CFMEU enjoyed substantial knowledge regarding proposed government tenders. By 2021, the company observed that the union was emboldened by its success on major infrastructure projects and possessed a level of influence within the state government not seen in previous years.

Construction firms feared putting the CFMEU offside due to its close ties with the state government.

The inquiry heard that union officials intervened multiple times on site, forcing work to stop. By early June 2022, health and safety managers were calling police for assistance as union representatives sat on barriers and refused to move. Internal notes revealed warnings given to workers that their lives would be made difficult if they continued working.

Why it matters This inquiry sheds light on the complex dynamics between major labor unions and state government infrastructure projects, addressing allegations of unlawful interference and project delays that impact public works governance and accountability.