Watchdog’s move to take over scandal-plagued union

The Fair Work Commission has on Friday launched legal proceedings in a bid to appoint an independent administrator to the beleaguered CFMEU.

The national union watchdog has launched Federal Court proceedings to have the scandal-plagued CFMEU placed into the hands of an independent administrator.

On Friday, the Fair Work Commission’s general manager Murray Furlong initiated action in the Federal Court to appoint an independent administrator to the Construction, Forestry and Maritime Employees Union’s construction and general division.

If successful, an administrator will be appointed to the Victoria, Tasmania, NSW, Queensland, Northern Territory and South Australian branches of the powerful union.

The Fair Work Commission (FWC) is proposing to install barrister Mark Irving KC as the union’s administrator.

“Mr Irving KC has been a member of the Victorian Bar for over 26 years. His experience is extensive and includes acting in significant matters relating to both unions and employer organisations,” the FWC said.

The Fair Work Commission is seeking to appoint an administrator to the CFMEU. Picture: Glenn Campbell/NewsWire

Under the proposal, the administrator will have the power to sack officers and officials and take possession of all property, including credit cards.

It comes in the wake of allegations of corruption and links with bikies within the CFMEU.

The CFMEU has moved to avoid it being placed in the hands of administrators, appointing barrister Geoffrey Watson to investigate the allegations.

Newly installed federal Workplace Relations Minister Murray Watt earlier this week said that he was prepared to introduce legislation if the union opposed any moves to wrest control.

The CFMEU has been plagued by allegations of bikie links. Picture: NewsWire / Ian Currie

The FWC said the West Australian and ACT branches would be brought under the administrator at a later date if the move was successful.

Master Builders Australia on Friday welcomed the FWC application to the Federal Court.

However, it said it was “disappointed” thar the WA and ACT arms were not included in the application.

“While this is an important first step towards tackling criminality and the poor culture within the sector, far more needs to be done in order to build on the moves to date and ensure that they drive lasting and meaningful change once and for all,” Master Builders said in a statement.

“This starts with making sure strong and comprehensive protections are in place for people wishing to come forward with evidence, information or materials to support the various investigations and inquiries under way.”