CFMEU Inquiry Uncovers Alleged Violence, Corruption, and Political Ties in Union Leadership

March 17, 2026
CFMEU Inquiry Uncovers Alleged Violence, Corruption, and Political Ties in Union Leadership
  • The inquiry is targeting a final report by the end of July, amid political scrutiny and tensions with the state government and former Labor administration.

  • Recent hearings have focused on regulatory capture, with Workplace Health and Safety Queensland staff describing CFMEU influence over the regulator and four concrete examples under close scrutiny.

  • Commissioner Stuart Wood leads a $19.7 million public inquiry into alleged criminality, corruption, and misconduct within the CFMEU and the wider union sector, spurred by reporting from Brisbane Times and 60 Minutes.

  • In January 2026, the inquiry opened its first three-day public hearing block for the year, featuring testimony from a senior figure in the civil construction sector and the former anti-corruption counsel for CFMEU administrators, with focus on a Victoria-focused CFMEU report and related allegations.

  • The CFMEU inquiry has long explored violence within the union’s leadership as it expands its reach into civil construction, including allegations that a former Labor minister steered departmental negotiations with the union.

  • Earlier actions include a media conference near a Gold Coast company tied to a Melbourne underworld figure, Mick Gatto, with indications investigators expect revelations that could shift the timing of proceedings.

  • Previously, significant hearings in late 2025 described violence and power expansion by government-appointed CFMEU administration figures, providing context for ongoing probes into the union’s influence and conduct.

Summary based on 1 source


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