Australia’s industrial watchdog, the Fair Work Commission, has been inundated with over 1000 complaints regarding the conduct of the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU). These complaints, which include allegations of death threats, nepotism, and obstruction of employment, have been particularly focused on major projects like Victoria’s $100 billion Big Build.
The data, collected via the Fair Work Commission’s hotline since mid-2024, highlights ongoing issues within the construction industry. Veteran union figure Michael Flinn has acknowledged the persistent presence of criminal elements in the sector, despite long-standing efforts to combat corruption.
Alarming Allegations and Historical Context
The complaints were facilitated by a dedicated website portal and phone line, established shortly after the publication of the “Building Bad” investigation in July 2024. Between then and mid-October 2025, the hotline received 1050 submissions, with 600 pertaining to Victorian construction sites alone.
This surge in reports follows a damning investigation by corruption-busting lawyer Geoffrey Watson, SC. His findings indicated that the CFMEU’s intimidating and corrupt practices have funneled billions into the hands of criminals and outlaw motorcycle gangs, with the Victorian government allegedly turning a blind eye to these issues.
“For over a half a century, we have, as a nation, been trying to eradicate criminal influence and corruption from the construction industry. And we have failed,” said Michael Flinn in a letter to Fair Work Commission chief Murray Furlong.
Specific Incidents and Broader Implications
Among the numerous complaints was an August 2024 incident where a union delegate allegedly blocked an ex-girlfriend from employment on the Suburban Rail Loop project in Melbourne. Other reports accused CFMEU delegates with criminal ties of bullying and threatening workers on various Victorian infrastructure projects.
Further allegations included the coercion of major contractors into providing favorable roles for associates, with threats of project shutdowns if these demands were not met. In Sydney, a CFMEU member reportedly made life-threatening remarks, boasting of gang affiliations, which led to safety concerns and resignations on the St Mary’s Metro Station project.
“Workers have raised safety concerns, with some resigning due to intimidation and bullying involving this individual and the site superintendent,” one complaint stated.
Response and Future Actions
In response to these allegations, the Fair Work Commission has referred over 400 matters to various authorities, including the Fair Work Ombudsman and the Australian Federal Police. Michael Flinn has proposed a “joint industry charter” to enforce new integrity standards across the sector, emphasizing the need for ongoing law enforcement and stricter rules for all industry participants.
Despite these efforts, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has rejected calls for an inquiry into the union’s conduct on public projects, citing previous referrals to the state’s corruption watchdog and an independent review led by public servant Greg Wilson.
“We now have a once-in-a-century opportunity to fix the problem,” Flinn stated, urging for comprehensive reforms.
Political and Public Reactions
State Opposition Leader Jess Wilson has highlighted the significance of these corruption allegations, describing them as one of the largest financial scandals in Victoria’s history. Meanwhile, Fair Work Commission chief Murray Furlong has stressed the importance of accountability, stating that the issue impacts every Victorian and that the public deserves transparency.
As the situation unfolds, the construction industry faces increased scrutiny, with stakeholders calling for decisive action to address the deep-rooted issues of corruption and criminal influence.
