Allegations of Secret Deal Between Albanese Government and CFMEU Leader

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese faces mounting pressure to clarify allegations regarding a potential agreement with John Setka, the disgraced former Secretary of the Victorian CFMEU Construction Division. During a recent appearance on the program Spotlight, Mr. Setka claimed that he received assurances from various intermediaries that his resignation as Secretary would prevent the Albanese Government from placing the CFMEU into administration.

The Shadow Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Senator Michaelia Cash, has demanded answers from Mr. Albanese and his ministers concerning the alleged ‘secret deal.’ She emphasized the importance of transparency regarding any knowledge the Prime Minister or his Government may have had about this arrangement.

Senator Cash expressed concern that, instead of addressing the issues caused by the CFMEU, particularly following Mr. Albanese’s controversial decision to abolish the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC), the Government might have been negotiating with a controversial union figure.

Furthermore, Senator Cash raised additional questions, asking whether other CFMEU officials were offered preferential treatment, or if any concessions were provided should the union enter administration. Her inquiry also sought to identify the intermediary responsible for discussions between Mr. Setka and former Minister Tony Burke.

Critics have pointed to the CFMEU’s increasing influence within the construction sector under the Albanese Government, which they argue has led to a significant rise in infrastructure costs for Australian taxpayers, contributing to the national cost of living crisis. Senator Cash highlighted that the CFMEU has donated over $6.2 million to the Labor Party since Mr. Albanese took leadership.

In related developments, former CFMEU leaders in New South Wales have reportedly held a large meeting of union delegates, advocating for a national walkout of construction workers and targeting the builder Multiplex, notwithstanding the recent administration of their union.

The mass gathering comes amid potential legal risks for the former officials, as they could face fines or criminal penalties for undermining the administrator’s efforts. The protest could disrupt major construction projects as delegates were encouraged to orchestrate a widespread walkout.

In response to the situation, industry executives have characterized the union’s actions as erratic and have raised concerns about the legality of potential protests. Meanwhile, the CFMEU, currently under the control of an appointed administrator, has distanced itself from the rally plans, emphasizing that taking unprotected industrial action is unlawful.