Inquiry hears of 'deal' between union and government
An embattled union believed it had a sweetheart agreement with a state government, an inquiry has heard.
aapnews.aap.com.auI can share what’s publicly reported about the CFMEU inquiry and contractor testimony up to now, but I don’t have live access to the latest feeds in this moment.
Key recent developments
- Queensland CFMEU inquiry resuming into construction industry misconduct has featured testimony from senior industry figures and union officials, with ongoing hearings focusing on allegations of bullying, violence, and improper conduct within the union and its contractors.[3][4]
- There have been notable legal actions tied to safety and compliance around construction sites related to CFMEU activities, including matters prompted by the Fair Work Ombudsman, which has pursued action against union organizers and associated parties in relation to safety protocols and site access.[1][5]
- The inquiry has heard from a range of witnesses, including former regulators and construction-sector leaders, as it investigates a “cycle of lawlessness” and alleged misconduct within the CFMEU in Queensland, with a final report anticipated around mid-2026, subject to the inquiry’s findings.[2][3]
What this means about contractor testimony
- Testimony from contractors and construction bosses has been central to the hearings, aiming to establish whether contractor practices were influenced by or implicated CFMEU actions, and to assess the impact on project costs, productivity, and safety.[3]
- The inquiry has specifically examined whether some contractors faced pressure or coercive tactics in relation to work under CFMEU influence, as part of broader investigations into industry misconduct.[4][3]
Notable sources to check for the latest specifics
- ABC News Australia coverage of CFMEU inquiry proceedings and new allegations aired during 2026 hearings.[10][2]
- AAP News Australia reporting on testimony and the inquiry’s progress, including any new cross-examinations or pivotal statements.[1]
- Queensland inquiry transcripts and official updates from the commission’s site for the most direct, contemporaneous records.[9]
Would you like me to pull the very latest articles or transcripts from those sources and summarize any new contractor testimony or key revelations? I can also provide a quick timeline of major testimony milestones if that helps.