The Morning Edition
Best of 2024: How bikies, underworld figures have infiltrated our construction industry
Dec 29, 2024
Nick McKenzie, an investigative reporter known for exposing the CFMEU scandal, delves into the alarming infiltration of bikie gangs and organized crime within the construction union. He discusses the historical power dynamics of the CFMEU and the corruption that has compromised its integrity. McKenzie highlights the struggles of whistleblowers and the ongoing impact of these revelations on state projects and the Labour Party. The conversation uncovers systemic issues, urging for accountability and reform within the industry.
18:58
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Quick takeaways
- The CFMEU scandal reveals a troubling infiltration of organized crime into the construction industry, undermining the union's original mission to protect workers.
- The resignation of John Setka raises critical questions about future leadership reforms within the CFMEU and the potential to restore public trust.
Deep dives
The CFMEU's Corruption and Criminal Infiltration
The construction union CFMEU has been deeply infiltrated by organized crime, leading to a significant corruption scandal that has emerged from its long-standing history of power and militancy. Elements within the union have been accused of collaborating with bikie gangs and criminal figures, which has fundamentally undermined the union's mission to support workers. Investigative reporting reveals that high-level union officials have engaged with notorious criminals like Mick Gatto to resolve disputes and gain leverage, thus legitimizing criminal involvement in labor issues. These actions point to a disturbing trend where union power is misused, shifting from protecting workers to enabling criminal operations.
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