Coalition industrial relations spokeswoman Michaelia Cash has called for legislation to deregister the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) following revelations of misconduct within the union. Cash criticized Labor Senator Murray Watt for his lack of action against the CFMEU, accusing him of being a long-time supporter of the union and only now pretending to get tough on them.
The Building Bad investigation, conducted by The Australia Financial Review and 60 Minutes, exposed the infiltration of the CFMEU by bikies and organized crime. This led to the resignation of former CFMEU Victorian division leader John Setka. It was also revealed that Marty Albert, a senior Bandidos bikie enforcer, was assigned by the CFMEU to work as a union organizer on major Victorian government construction projects and sit on the governing board of the union branch, despite facing charges over a violent assault.
In response to these controversies, Nationals Senate leader Bridget McKenzie and Michaelia Cash signaled plans to refer misconduct claims in the building industry to the rural and regional affairs and transport references committee. However, garnering support for the inquiry may prove challenging, as key crossbenchers are lukewarm on the proposal.
With the opposition holding 31 votes in the Senate and needing a majority of 39 to pass the inquiry, the support of crossbenchers becomes crucial. The Greens are unlikely to support the Coalition’s proposed inquiry but are more willing to consider an inquiry into the legislation proposed by Murray Watt.
Independent MP David Pocock’s feedback from stakeholders suggests a preference for legislative action over another inquiry. Senator Jacqui Lambie has expressed support for the government’s legislation, emphasizing the need to address the issue promptly.
Independent senator Tammy Tyrrell is open to considering an inquiry but stresses the importance of it being comprehensive and not biased towards the Coalition. She highlights the need to explore alternatives for regulating the industry effectively.
As the debate over the CFMEU’s misconduct and potential deregistration continues, the focus remains on finding a solution that ensures accountability and transparency within the construction industry. The upcoming parliamentary session will likely see further discussions and decisions on how to address these issues effectively.