Previously unseen video footage has been played at the Queensland Commission of Inquiry into the CFMEU, showing a large group of union members entering a government transport conference in Brisbane during a 2022 protest. The footage formed part of ongoing hearings examining allegations of intimidation, workplace disruption and the union's influence over major infrastructure projects.
The inquiry heard that approximately 200 protesters entered the Transport and Main Roads (TMR) conference at the Brisbane CBD after pushing past security personnel. Evidence presented included police body-worn camera footage and videos showing the protest interrupting proceedings and causing public servants to seek safety inside the building.
Witnesses told the inquiry that some employees were left shaken and distressed by the incident. Several public servants described feeling intimidated as protesters filled the conference area, leading to the event being disrupted and sections of the building being locked down.
The protest centred on the former Queensland Government's Best Practice Industry Conditions (BPIC) policy, which governed employment conditions on major government construction projects. The inquiry is examining whether the CFMEU exercised inappropriate influence over government procurement and infrastructure decisions.
Evidence was also given by construction industry representatives, who argued that industrial pressure and procurement policies increased project costs and complicated the delivery of major infrastructure works. The inquiry has heard differing views from government officials, contractors and union representatives throughout its hearings.
The CFMEU has rejected many of the allegations raised during the inquiry and maintains it has undertaken significant governance and cultural reforms under its current administration. Its legal representatives have challenged aspects of the evidence presented by witnesses.
The Commission of Inquiry remains ongoing and is expected to hear further evidence from government officials, industry leaders and other witnesses before delivering its findings. No final conclusions have been reached, and the matters examined by the inquiry remain subject to its final report.
