Interim Report Reveals Damning Conclusions about Victorian CFMEU
An interim report conducted by Geoffrey Watson SC into allegations of criminal and corrupt conduct within the construction and general division of the Victorian CFMEU has shed light on a cycle of “lawlessness” within the state branch of the Union. Watson’s investigation was, however, hindered by the inability to compel witnesses and offer protection to potential informants.
Watson noted that violence and threats of violence were an accepted part of the culture within the Victorian CFMEU, serving as substitutes for reasoned negotiations. He expressed concerns about the lack of progress in addressing this issue, stating, “Even if the Victorian Branch had a real intention to fix this problem, more needs to be done.” Efforts to rid the union of bikies were deemed “inadequate,” with little evidence of a formal investigation having taken place.
One of the major obstacles faced by Watson was the unwillingness of union officials to involve the police when criminality was suspected. The report details a “stubborn refusal” to collaborate with law enforcement, and Watson observed that some officials viewed the police as enemies. Astonishingly, numerous incidents of severe physical assault and threats were reported, but no police referrals were made.
The interim report concludes with seven recommendations, one of which calls for a further investigation to identify instances of threatening, violent, or abusive conduct by Victorian branch officials. Watson also emphasizes the need for the branch to develop cooperative relationships with law enforcement and regulatory authorities to ensure that criminal conduct is appropriately addressed.
In response to these findings, federal Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus has placed the construction arm of the CFMEU and all of its branches into administration. Mark Irving KC has been appointed as the administrator and has instructed Watson to provide his report and recommendations for further investigations.
It is evident from this interim report that the Victorian CFMEU has been marred by a culture of lawlessness, where violence and threats have become normative. The reluctance of union officials to involve the police has only perpetuated this cycle and hindered the efforts to address these issues effectively. The recommendations put forth in the report provide a roadmap for change, urging the Victorian branch to take decisive action, build cooperative relationships with law enforcement, and ensure that criminal conduct within their ranks is dealt with in accordance with the law. The appointment of Mark Irving KC as administrator signals a commitment to rectifying these issues and fostering a more transparent and accountable union.
