CFMEU Scandal: Is Your Queensland Construction Business at Risk? (What to Do Now)

Описание: 🚨 THE CFMEU SCANDAL & WHAT IT MEANS FOR QUEENSLAND CONSTRUCTION BUSINESSES

A major report released in February 2026 alleged systematic corruption within a state CFMEU branch, characterising it as exhibiting what the report termed "crime syndicate" characteristics. The report documented substantial taxpayer costs from alleged corrupt practices across infrastructure projects.

While these allegations originated in one state, Queensland construction businesses now face unprecedented regulatory scrutiny with three major legal changes taking effect.

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🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

ALLEGED CORRUPTION METHODS DOCUMENTED
The report detailed how enterprise bargaining agreements were allegedly sold as commodities, labour hire firms allegedly billed for non-existent workers, and what the report characterised as systematic extortion occurred on major projects. These practices are now red flags for regulators across Australia.

ENFORCEMENT IS ACTIVE
A dedicated police taskforce has laid dozens of charges against multiple individuals. Integrity bodies including NACC and CCC are actively investigating construction corruption. These are allegations currently before the courts.

NEW AML LAWS (1 JULY 2026)
Tranche 2 reforms expand anti-money laundering obligations to lawyers, accountants, and real estate agents involved in construction projects. Construction is now officially designated high-risk for money laundering. Enhanced due diligence and suspicious activity reporting will affect every major project.

ANTI-CORRUPTION INVESTIGATIONS INTENSIFYING
Multiple integrity bodies—NACC (federal), Queensland CCC, and state counterparts—are actively investigating construction corruption. Federal bribery offences carry significant imprisonment penalties. High-risk areas include gifts to government officials, facilitation payments, and procurement-related pressure.

WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTIONS AVAILABLE
Queensland's Public Interest Disclosure Act 2010 protects public sector workers. Private construction falls under the Corporations Act 2001. Both provide confidentiality, immunity from liability, and protection from reprisal for those who report suspected corruption in good faith.

QUEENSLAND MAJOR PROJECTS UNDER SCRUTINY
Major infrastructure projects across Queensland are now under intense scrutiny from both state and federal regulators due to significant public investment and international oversight.

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⚠️ WHAT CONSTRUCTION BUSINESSES MUST DO:

Implement enhanced contractor vetting procedures including beneficial ownership verification. Update payment controls and approval thresholds. Establish anti-corruption policies and gift registers. Train teams on identifying red flags and understanding reporting pathways. Update contract templates with anti-corruption clauses, audit rights, and termination triggers.

The report's findings have triggered federal criminal investigations and ongoing enforcement action. Companies that implement robust compliance frameworks now will be protected. Those that wait risk significant legal, financial, and reputational consequences.

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📞 HOW MERLO LAW CAN HELP:

We specialise in construction and commercial law for Queensland builders, developers, contractors, and subcontractors.

Our services include:
→ Comprehensive compliance audits
→ Anti-corruption policy development
→ Contract review and drafting with appropriate protections
→ Whistleblower protection advice (public and private sector)


CONTACT JOHN MERLO:

📞 0431 813 950
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.merlolaw.com.au

Book a confidential consultation to discuss your specific circumstances.

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⚖️ LEGAL DISCLAIMER:

This video is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The video discusses findings and allegations from a report commissioned by government. All allegations discussed have not been tested in court unless specifically stated. This video does not make independent factual assertions beyond what is contained in cited sources. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. Viewers should obtain specific legal advice for their circumstances before taking action. The content provided does not create a solicitor-client relationship.