Businesses involved in the construction industry are being urged to prepare for quick responses if called upon by the Queensland Commission of Inquiry into the CFMEU, which holds its first public hearings today.
Brisbane law firm Mullins believes with the power to compel production of documents and summon witnesses, the Inquiry’s scope was broad and its potential impact significant.
It a statement, it said the uncertainty surrounding the Inquiry was already driving businesses to act.
“Legal teams are being engaged at speed as organisations likely to be impacted by the Inquiry prepare as best they can to safeguard employees and stakeholders as well as broader business interests.
“Key issues regarding witness testimony and document production warrant immediate consideration if not action.”
The statement said the Inquiry would investigate the Queensland branch of the Construction, Forestry and Maritime Employees Union’s (CFMEU) dealings across major infrastructure projects, its financial practices, labour arrangements, and relationships with related parties.
It said with the Commissioner’s final report expected by July 31, 2026, it remained to be seen how far the Inquiry would go, however, the terms of reference provided a very broad ambit for investigation.
