Sun Oct 26 23:20:00 UTC 2025: News Article:

Government Under Fire as New Allegations Plague CFMEU Despite Administration

CANBERRA – The Albanese government is facing mounting criticism for allegedly failing to adequately address corruption and misconduct within the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU), despite placing the union’s Construction and General division under administration 14 months ago.

The move to install an administrator followed a series of damaging revelations published by The Age, Australian Financial Review, and 60 Minutes, which detailed allegations of corruption and misconduct. However, fresh allegations have continued to surface under the administration of Mark Irving KC.

Former CFMEU representative Charles Farrugia has come forward with claims of being pressured to cover up a crime in exchange for a job on a major infrastructure project. In an interview with The Age, Farrugia alleged that he was urged to impede a police investigation into a violent assault where a rival union official reportedly attacked him at his home, in front of his family. Farrugia also alleges the CFMEU’s new leadership has failed to address nepotism and cover-ups within the Victorian branch, claiming that former union boss John Setka still wields influence.

Shadow Resources Minister Susan McDonald, speaking on Sky News Sunday Agenda, slammed the government’s response, stating that the Albanese government had failed in its most important role. “This is a union that has terrorised workers, and not just workers, but their families, their children at school,” Ms McDonald said, further accusing the union of inflating construction costs and harming the housing market.

Senator McDonald expressed hope that the government would take decisive action but criticized their track record, stating, “the Albanese government is failing in its primary role to protect Australians.” She accused the government of failing Australians, ‘Whether it be in their homes, whether it be in holding a great job and future Australian prosperity.’

The government is yet to respond to the specific allegations and criticisms. This story is developing.

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