The state opposition has warned that “corruption” on worksites will continue despite John Setka’s resignation from the CFMEU, unless the Allan government launches an urgent probe into the militant union.
Deputy Liberal leader and opposition transport infrastructure spokesman David Southwick on Saturday called on Premier Jacinta Allan to face the media and explain how she would crack down on bad union behaviour.
Mr Southwick accused Ms Allan of running a protection racket for Mr Setka, calling for an investigation to “clean up the very union that has held this state to ransom for far too long”.
“I think all Victorians are finally glad to see the back of John Setka,” he said.
“But that’s not enough. Once John Setka goes, who’s in charge of the CFMEU then? This is a corrupt union.”
Mr Setka, who was supposed to step down later this year, on Friday resigned early, understood to be prompted by queries about the union’s links to criminal organisations, such as outlaw motorcycle gangs.
Premier Jacinta Allan is being urged to outline how she will crack down on dodgy union behaviour in the wake of new allegations. Picture: Diego Fedele
He faced allegations alleged bikie figures and convicted criminals had been given lucrative union roles on various major projects, including the taxpayer-funded Victorian Big Build.
On Saturday, a government spokeswoman said the “extremely serious allegations” would need to be investigated by the appropriate authorities.
“Our expectations are clear. There is zero tolerance for illegal behaviour,” she said.
“John Setka has resigned — as he should.”
Earlier this year, the state opposition pledged to reinstate a code of practice for the building and construction industry through a watchdog to be known as Construction Enforcement Victoria.
The code will look after onsite conduct, settle disputes, prevent sham contracting and crack down on dodgy behaviour.
“Unless you actually bring in some tighter laws to ensure they can’t run absolutely riot over the state and these projects, you are just going to get this behaviour again,” Mr Southwick said.
