ConstructionTaryn ParisMon 01 Jun 26
No Stone Left Unturned: CFMEU Inquiry Extended
The Queensland Government has extended the CFMEU Commission of Inquiry until the end of 2027, as explosive evidence continues to emerge regarding alleged bullying, intimidation, and violence on the state’s construction worksites.
Commissioner Stuart Wood requested the extension, citing the substantial volume of evidence before the inquiry and the additional time required to ensure relevant witnesses and affected parties have a full opportunity to give evidence and be cross-examined.
The inquiry has already painted a deeply concerning picture of the CFMEU’s conduct, with allegations of misogyny, intimidation, and violence on Queensland worksites.
Evidence has also canvassed the union’s relationship with former Labor ministers, including allegations that former Minister for State Development Grace Grace threatened to rip up a company’s contract if it refused to comply with the CFMEU’s demands.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development Jarrod Bleijie said the extension was necessary to ensure no stone was left unturned.
“The former Labor Government spent years turning a blind eye while a culture of intimidation and alleged corruption was allowed to fester out of control,” he said.
“The allegations aired before the inquiry regarding former ministers ... are deeply concerning.”
The extension will allow for additional public hearings in Brisbane and regional Queensland, the presentation of further case studies, and procedural fairness processes—including the cross-examination of key individuals alleged to have engaged in wrongdoing.
Further submissions will also be invited ahead of the final report.
Deputy Premier Bleijie reaffirmed the government’s broader commitment to the construction sector.
“We’re committed to restoring integrity, transparency, productivity and safety across Queensland’s construction industry,” Bleijie said.
The State has also advanced construction of the new Olympic Games stadium at Victoria Park in Brisbane this week.
Preparatory earthworks are under way, following the Games Independent Infrastructure Coordination Authority (GIICA) officially taking possession of the site on Monday.
Once complete, Victoria Park will be home to a 63,000-seat centrepiece for the 2032 Games, with about two-thirds of the site remaining as designated green and public space.
Architects have also been announced for the Athletes Village project.
A consortium comprising Woods Bagot, Cottee Parker, DBI and Plus Studio in collaboration with UK architectural practice Howells will team with project partners Lendlease and RNA to design and lead the Games-time and legacy design of the buildings.
BVN was also appointed to help steer the future of the Brisbane Showgrounds Precinct.
