WA CFMEU Branch Suspended Amid Allegations

Premier Roger Cook has taken the significant step of suspending the Western Australian branch of the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) from WA Labor.

This action follows confirmation from the Commonwealth Government that the Construction & General Division of the CFMEU, along with all its branches—including the WA branch—has been placed into administration.

The decision arises from serious allegations of misconduct involving CFMEU branches in the eastern states, in addition to concerns regarding the conduct of individuals within the WA branch itself.

The Premier has formally requested party officials to suspend the WA branch and has called for any future donations from the CFMEU to be rejected while the branch remains in administration.

Last month, the Cook Government introduced new laws aimed at equipping the Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission (WAIRC) with powers designed to ensure that only suitable individuals have the right to enter WA work sites.

Under the new industrial relations laws, any union official must now pass a Fit and Proper Person Test administered by the WAIRC in order to obtain a State Right of Entry Permit.

Comments attributed to Premier Cook emphasize the importance of maintaining the integrity of the union movement, expressing support for the Fair Work Commission and the Federal Government’s actions.

Premier Cook stated, “I always said that I won’t hesitate to take further action if necessary – and given the WA branch will now be placed into administration, we are acting immediately.”

The Premier has also highlighted the vital role unions play in protecting workers and expressed his commitment to addressing the issues exposed within the union movements.