CFMEU Inquiry: Cross River Rail Project Hearings Begin

0:00This is Sydney News Today, every story, every city, every day. The Queensland government kicked off a $19.7 million inquiry into corruption and misconduct in the construction union, and industry, led by commissioners Steward Wood, it's set to deliver its final report by July 31st. The probe stems from media reports exposing criminality in the CFMEU nationwide. This month, current and former workplace health and safety Queensland staff describe heavy union influence over their office. The inquiry called this one of four cases of regulatory capture by the CFMEU. They even held a media conference outside a gold coast firm tied to underworld figure Mick Gatto, hinting they might uncover more than expected and could seek extra time. The inquiry has drawn its own scrutiny amid sharp government criticism of the union and the previous labor administration. Public hearings have spotlight attentions, including claims of former labor minister

1:01pushes department to deal directly with the union. Last month wrapped up the first of ten three day hearing blocks. Witnesses included a top civil construction executive and a barrister who once fought corruption for CFMEU administrators. Much of the talk centered on that barrister's recent report from Victoria. Now the focus shifts to the troubled Cross River Rail Project. But first is chief executive Graeme Newton, the highest ranking public official so far. Also testifying our contractor leaders, Vince San Filippo from CPB and Don Johnson from engineering firm EIC. We'd like to thank our sponsor for making this episode possible. You know what is better than earbuds in bed? No earbuds at all, SOLI, solelypillow.com