Cross River Rail CFMEU inquiry proceedings in Queensland have heard claims, as reported by ABC, that the union “purposefully” interfered with work on Brisbane’s taxpayer-funded rail project. The claim was that it sought to “maximise” construction delays and budget blowouts.

Cross River Rail CFMEU inquiry hears disruption claims
The Queensland branch of the CFMEU said in a social media post that the state government had “been repeatedly warned about cost cutting and major safety issues”. (ABC News)

The union’s role in the state’s biggest infrastructure project has been central to this week’s public hearings. Cross River Rail Delivery Authority chief executive Graeme Newton is giving evidence over two days. The 10.2km Brisbane underground rail network, as outlined by Cross River Rail, is due to open in 2029. It is five years behind schedule. Costs have risen from $5.4 billion to an estimated $19 billion.

Cross River Rail CFMEU inquiry focuses on site disruption

Work was halted for 148 days between April and December 2024. The stoppage came during a tense enterprise bargaining dispute between contractor CPB and the CFMEU. In his written statement, Mr Newton said: “During rallies, protests and other forms of industrial action … the CFMEU appeared to adopt a strategic and tactical approach to site disruption.”

Don’t miss…Meridian Speedway service case ends with STB denial

Also, he added: “In these instances, the CFMEU appeared to use their knowledge of major construction phases to purposefully disrupt specific works, maximising negative impact on the wider project delivery program.”

Meanwhile, Mr Newton also said: “The CFMEU appeared to target critical … works with an aim to disrupt site operations … force significant rescheduling of works and prevent the project from achieving major milestones.”

According to Mr Newton’s submission, union members were alleged to have:

  • poured concrete into toilets to block them;
  • damaged concrete pumps;
  • taken keys from subcontractors.

Graeme Newton evidence highlights safety and cost claims

In addition, Mr Newton told the inquiry the CFMEU “consistently made unsubstantiated claims” through social media and media organisations about “poor safety” on worksites. Those claims included allegations involving asbestos exposure and heat stress.

“It became a pretty standard practice of the CFMEU to just put misinformation into the marketplace to undermine the credibility of the project, the Delivery Authority, the contractors and people working on the project,” Mr Newton said, describing it as “disruptive and unproductive”.

At the same time, he said “sustained CFMEU interference” had contributed to ongoing timeline setbacks and increased operational costs. He also said productivity had since been “restored”. Major construction works, he said, were completed on time or ahead of schedule.

Procurement probity risks and Jackie Trad reference

Separately, speaking on Tuesday, Mr Newton said he was concerned about “probity” risks during the project’s procurement process. He said meetings with senior CFMEU officials Michael Ravbar and Jade Ingham had been “aggressive”. He also said they tried to influence tender selection.

Still, he told the hearing it was “evident” that the union had a “direct line of communication” into the office of then deputy premier Jackie Trad to press its demands.

For example, in a statement to the ABC, Ms Trad said she was “more than willing to cooperate with the inquiry and give evidence, should that be required.”

“Respecting the ongoing deliberations of the Inquiry, I will reserve making any further comment unless requested to appear,” she said.

All branches of the CFMEU’s construction division were placed into administration in 2024. The move came amid allegations that bikie gangs and crime syndicates had infiltrated the organisation.

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed:

Don’t miss…CN Rail Skeena River derailment sparks Gitxsan rail halt call

Find the latest news of the railway industry in Eastern Europe, the former Soviet Union and the rest of the world on our page on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, read Railway Supply magazine online.

Place your ads on webportal and in Railway Supply magazine. Detailed information is in Railway Supply media kit