Victoria's Big Build inquiry hears CFMEU threatened to 'smash' subcontractor

Victoria's Big Build royal commission commenced a two-week span of public hearings on June 19, 2023. The proceedings commenced with an exploration of the events leading to a work stoppage at a Sunbury level crossing removal site in June 2022. The public hearings are set to continue until November 20, 2023, just days before the state election.

The commission has heard that a major contractor expressed concern over the unprecedented access the CFMEU (Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union) had to government ministers and allegations of threats against subcontractors. Counsel assisting the commission, Chris Young KC, noted that all discussed themes were currently allegations, some of which had been denied.

On June 6, 2022, work on the Gap Road project ceased and resumed the following day after control of the site was transferred to the CFMEU. The commission heard that project costs had increased by approximately $6 million. Internal memos from project contractor John Holland were read out, including allegations about the CFMEU's relationship with the Victorian government.

The union's relationship with the state government is significant, with the CFMEU playing a crucial role in the election of the Andrews government and having access to key government stakeholders.

The commission heard of escalating tensions on the Gap Road site, with the CFMEU putting pressure on a subcontractor, Wagstaff Piling, not to work. One internal memo stated, "you guys better not turn up tonight otherwise we'll smash you during the day." Police and WorkSafe Victoria were notified, but no action was taken, as the incident was deemed an occupational health and safety issue.

Wagstaff Piling subsequently informed other firms of their non-operation, citing union pressure. The royal commission has received a large volume of information, including private hearings and over 110,000 documents. The hearings coincide with the upcoming November 28 state election, during which Victorians will vote. Premier Ben Carroll denied any knowledge of the CFMEU's access to senior government officials and ministers, stating that the premier will make tough decisions.