Parliament plays politics leaving building and construction industry in limbo

Today the Parliament has decided to prioritise party politics at the expense of cleaning up the CFMEU, leaving the building and construction industry in limbo.

Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn said the industry has been under a cloud of uncertainty for a month since the Nine investigation into the union.

“Every day of delay in putting the CFMEU into administration is another day the entire industry is exposed to criminal conduct, bullying, coercion and intimidation on work sites.

“If Parliament was serious about standing up to the CFMEU and stamping out the ingrained culture of lawlessness and thuggery they would have passed the legislation this week.

“Every building and construction industry body that has weighed in on this legislation has called for its immediate passage because we know the serious consequences of inaction.

“This should not be considered as the be all and end all towards cleaning up the industry and making lasting and meaningful changes.

“This is a first step but critical first step towards a long-term process for permanent and lasting changes.

“This weekend, we hope all MPs and Senators are thinking about the hard-working builders and subbies they have turned their backs on.

“The Parliament needs to find ways to resolve any impasses that exist either through legislative amendments or other means so the Bill can be passed next week.

“Australians expect a thriving and safe building and construction industry to deliver the roads, hospitals, schools and most importantly housing that they are crying out for,” Ms Wawn concluded.

Media contact: Dee Zegarac, National Director, Media & Public Affairs

0400 493 071 | dee.zegarac@masterbuilders.com.au