Labor Leader Steven Miles ‘Stunned’ by CFMEU Queensland Report as Michael Ravbar Dismisses Conclusions

CFMEU Under Fire: Report Unveils Culture of Violence and Intimidation

A recent investigation into the Queensland branch of the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) has revealed alarming findings regarding its internal culture. The report, published on Wednesday, indicates that the union has significantly violated its own anti-violence policies, employing threats and coercion as a means to further its agenda.

Key Findings of the Report

The inquiry, led by Geoffrey Watson SC and commissioned by administrator Mark Irving KC, uncovered that when the Labor government regained control in Queensland in 2015, the CFMEU felt empowered to dominate industrial relations. Notably, the report highlights a concerning sentiment expressed by a government minister, who described the union’s approach as “so aggressive that nothing can satisfy its appetite.” Additionally, another minister reportedly required a security upgrade due to threats linked to the CFMEU.

Reactions from Political Leaders

Queensland Opposition Leader Steven Miles expressed his shock and dismay at the report’s findings, condemning the behaviour documented within its pages. “The kind of behaviour and language and thuggery that is documented here is deeply concerning to me,” he stated. Miles, a self-identified proud trade unionist, emphasised that such conduct has no place in the union movement.

Despite the troubling findings, he noted that he had not been made aware of any threats directed towards Labor ministers during his tenure. While he acknowledged that he had observed inappropriate behaviour in meetings, he insisted that the extreme nature of the threats was not something he had encountered.

Accusations Against Labor

In a pointed response, Deputy Premier and Industrial Relations Minister Jarrod Bleijie accused the Labor Party of enabling the CFMEU’s intimidating behaviour throughout their decade-long relationship. He asserted, “While the CFMEU were out there bullying, physically intimidating, and threatening women and children, the Labor Party were driving the getaway car for the CFMEU.”

Leadership Blame and Denials

The report places significant blame on CFMEU secretary Michael Ravbar and assistant secretary Jade Ingham for fostering a culture of violence within the union. Watson’s findings suggest that the leadership actively planned and directed a campaign of intimidation that was carried out by union organisers and members alike. Both Ravbar and Ingham declined multiple invitations to participate in the investigation.

Ravbar has publicly rejected the report, claiming it is “riddled with errors” and based on selective accounts that lack substantiation. He argued that reducing the union’s culture to the actions of two individuals overlooks the contributions of many members who have worked diligently for the union’s cause.

Disturbing Incidents

One of the most disturbing allegations detailed in the report involves an incident where a female public servant was reportedly isolated in a CFMEU office. According to the findings, Ravbar locked the door and confronted her aggressively, allegedly using abusive language while implying she was being closely monitored by the union. The woman felt threatened to the point of requiring psychological assistance following the encounter. Ravbar has denied that this incident occurred, describing it as a baseless claim.

Calls for Accountability

Mark Irving, the administrator tasked with overseeing the CFMEU, condemned the culture perpetuated by its former leadership, labelling it as violent, cruel, and misogynistic. He affirmed that disciplinary actions against Ravbar and Ingham are already underway.

General Secretary of the Queensland Council of Unions, Jacqueline King, has called on the former leaders of the CFMEU to acknowledge their misconduct and issue an apology. She highlighted the importance of accountability within the union movement, stating, “You have let down the Queensland trade union movement.”

The Future of the CFMEU

The Queensland Council of Unions has voiced its opposition to any efforts aimed at deregistering the CFMEU branch, arguing that such actions would silence the voices of construction workers in the region. King emphasised the need for a strong, representative union that upholds integrity and respect.

In light of the report’s revelations, Irving has vowed to take decisive action based on its findings, prioritising the protection of witnesses and victims. He has committed to initiating cultural change within the CFMEU, stating that where credible evidence of violent or misogynistic behaviour exists, he will not hesitate to act. New management practices, including clear conduct guidelines, are set to be implemented to ensure a respectful and accountable environment within the union.

The findings of this report have sparked significant discussion regarding the future direction of the CFMEU and the broader implications for the trade union movement in Queensland.