Cash issued subpoena over AWU raids

Jobs Minister Michaelia Cash is ordered to give evidence in proceedings over Australian Federal Police raids on the AWU offices.

Jobs Minister Michaelia Cash has been issued with a subpoena over the AWU raids. Picture: Sean Davey

The Federal Court has issued subpoenas requiring Jobs Minister Michaelia Cash give evidence in proceedings over the Australian Federal Police raids on the Australian Workers Union offices.

The court ordered Senator Cash, who has so far refused to appear at Senate estimates today, to appear on August 1.

After a private meeting this morning, senators requested Senator Cash appear to give evidence if she “is available”.

Subpoenas have also been issued against her former senior media adviser, David De Garis, who was forced to resign last year, and another former adviser, Mark Lee.

AWU national secretary, Daniel Walton said the Union had “long believed last year’s raid — and the investigation itself — to be unlawful.

“We think it’s vital for the Court is assisted by the evidence of witnesses who we believe are relevant to the issues in the case. That is why we sought subpoenas.

“If we are to understand exactly what happened then we believe the testimony of these individuals is critical.”