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‘The gangsters have gone f*cking nowhere’: The failed clean up of the CFMEU
Mar 23, 2025
Martin Mckenzie Murray, associate editor of The Saturday Paper, delves into the ongoing corruption crisis plaguing the CFMEU. He discusses a shocking assault incident involving a union health inspector, which sheds light on severe organizational issues. The conversation explores the failures of federal oversight and ongoing challenges to reform the powerful union. Murray also raises concerns about mob ties and the complexities of union representation, questioning the effectiveness of proposed reforms amidst deep-rooted corruption.
15:30
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Quick takeaways
- The CFMEU's recent incidents of violence and corruption reflect a deep-rooted toxic culture that poses severe challenges to its reform efforts.
- Despite proposals for new shop steward criteria intended to instigate change, skepticism remains about their potential effectiveness and implementation.
Deep dives
Alarming Incidents and Public Outrage
Recent footage of a CFMEU health inspector attacking a woman has sparked public outrage, revealing ongoing issues within the union, which has been under federal administration for six months. Although many in the community were horrified, union members expressed a lack of surprise, noting the pervasive culture of violence and corruption. The incident highlighted the union's struggles and the involvement of criminal elements, such as gangsters, who have allegedly infiltrated the organization. This alarming environment raises questions about the union's capacity to reform and protect its members.
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