The commission of inquiry into the Queensland branch of the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) is set to hear testimony regarding an alleged “orchestrated campaign” of threats and intimidation. The CFMEU inquiry to hear about ‘orchestrated campaign’ from a rival union boss, specifically concerning reported threatening behavior directed towards top Queensland police officers. This development marks the second block of public hearings in Brisbane for the inquiry, which is investigating allegations of misconduct and corruption within the state division of the CFMEU.
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Main Points
The CFMEU inquiry to hear about ‘orchestrated campaign’ from Stacey Schinnerl, the head of the Australian Workers’ Union (AWU), who reported the concerning behavior. Evidence presented earlier this week included testimony from Queensland Council of Unions (QCU) general secretary Jacqueline King, who described increasing hostility towards Ms. Schinnerl and her staff. The inquiry was initiated following a critical report released in July by the Queensland government and is looking into the CFMEU’s alleged use of violence and intimidation tactics against the AWU to dominate civil construction sites.
Allegations of Intimidation and Threats
Jacqueline King’s testimony highlighted the extent of the alleged “orchestrated campaign.” She detailed how Stacey Schinnerl implemented enhanced personal safety measures, including the installation of home CCTV, due to the escalating nature of the threats. One specific incident involved a CFMEU member allegedly berating Ms. Schinnerl in front of her children during a Brisbane Labour Day march. King expressed deep concern for the safety of Schinnerl and her staff, emphasizing the rapidly deteriorating situation.
Further evidence presented to the CFMEU inquiry to hear about ‘orchestrated campaign’ from included a written statement from Ms. King, recounting an incident where Ms. Schinnerl believed she was being followed in traffic by two men on large motorcycles. A similar incident allegedly occurred to one of Ms. Schinnerl’s organizers on the Sunshine Coast motorway while driving with their grandchild. Ms. Schinnerl reportedly believed these incidents were part of a larger, coordinated effort by the CFMEU to target the AWU.
Meeting with Police Commissioner
The inquiry also examined a meeting organized by Ms. King and Ms. Schinnerl with Queensland Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski and Deputy Commissioner Cherlyn Scanlon in July 2024. The purpose of the meeting was to raise concerns about the alleged “orchestrated campaign” and provide evidence of aggressive behavior by CFMEU members towards the AWU. Ms. King testified that she provided the police leaders with a USB drive containing video footage documenting these incidents.
Despite providing the evidence, Ms. King indicated that they did not receive any follow-up from the police. She stated that they formed the impression that the police were unlikely to take action without further evidence. The CFMEU inquiry to hear about ‘orchestrated campaign’ from will now focus on Ms. Schinnerl’s direct testimony regarding the events and her concerns. The lack of immediate response from law enforcement is also expected to be a point of further examination.
Focus on Union Rivalry and Alleged Misconduct
The core of the inquiry revolves around the intense rivalry between the CFMEU and the AWU, particularly in the context of civil construction sites. Allegations of violence, intimidation, and other forms of misconduct have been central to the investigation. The CFMEU inquiry to hear about ‘orchestrated campaign’ from underscores the seriousness of these allegations and the potential implications for union operations and workplace safety in Queensland. The inquiry aims to determine the extent of any wrongdoing and recommend appropriate actions.
The fact that all state and territory branches of the construction arm of the CFMEU were placed into administration in August of the previous year highlights the gravity of the situation. The ongoing public hearings in Brisbane are crucial for uncovering the truth behind the allegations and ensuring accountability. The CFMEU inquiry to hear about ‘orchestrated campaign’ from is expected to shed light on the power dynamics and potential abuses within the union landscape.
As the CFMEU inquiry to hear about ‘orchestrated campaign’ from continues, the focus remains on gathering evidence and assessing the validity of the claims made by Ms. Schinnerl and others. The outcome of the inquiry could have significant consequences for the CFMEU, the AWU, and the broader union movement in Queensland. The testimony from Ms. Schinnerl is highly anticipated, as it will provide further insights into the alleged “orchestrated campaign” and its impact on the AWU and its members. The CFMEU inquiry to hear about ‘orchestrated campaign’ from is a critical step towards addressing the allegations of misconduct and ensuring fair and safe practices within the construction industry.
Note: Information based on credible sources and industry analysis.
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