The recently released ‘Rotting from the Top’ report by barrister Geoffrey Watson identifies serious allegations of misconduct within Victoria’s CFMEU, including links to organised crime networks.
The report reveals allegations of systemic misconduct within the construction union and raises fundamental questions about governance and oversight.
Today in state parliament, The Nationals’ MP Melina Bath called out the Allan Labor Government for allowing a culture of intimidation, greed and lawlessness to flourish on its watch.
“The CFMEU didn’t just lose its way – it descended into corruption linked to gangsters, bikies and criminal networks,” Ms Bath said.
“Warnings were ignored, corruption spread and Victorian families are now paying the price.
“The report makes clear that union misconduct is linked to an estimated $15 billion in major project blowouts – money that should have been used to build hospitals, schools and support vital community services.”
“This is the largest corruption scandal in Victoria’s history,” Ms Bath said.
“Wasting fifteen billion dollars represents more than $5,000 for every Victorian household – that’s money meant for families, not criminals.”
Ms Bath said the scandal represents a complete failure of leadership under Premier Jacinta Allan.
“Labor is a government mired in deceit with a Premier who failed to act.
“A Liberal and Nationals Government will introduce laws to chase down every cent of taxpayer money and restore integrity to Victoria’s building industry.
“Victorians deserve accountability, they deserve honesty and they deserve a government that will stand up to corruption and put Victorians first.”
