ACT construction sites are no exception to bullying and intimidation by the CFMEU, says Master Builders ACT.

“The recent allegations of bullying and intimidation by the CFMEU in Victoria… have come as no surprise to our members. This abhorrent conduct is experienced daily on construction sites around the country, and the ACT is no exception,” says a spokesperson for Master Builders ACT.

They say Master Builders ACT has doubled down on the ACT Labor Party to not legislate a power that would allow unions even more influence over government procurement.

Master Builders demanding that the Labor Party stand up against the CFMEU tactics “of bullying and thuggery and reject this outrageous request”.

“Experiences in other jurisdictions, including Victoria and Queensland, show that the cost of construction can increase by up to 30 per cent due to delays brought  about by CFMEU influence on building sites,” the spokesperson says.

“This is unacceptable given we are in the midst of the  worst national housing crisis of our times.

“The principles of freedom of association and competition must be protected. It beggars belief that the CFMEU would call for the union to have even more power over ACT government procurement  decisions.”  

Master Builders ACT has been raising concerns about union interference in procurement for years. The MoU between Unions ACT and the ACT government was inappropriate, and the Secure Local Jobs  Code is worse, they say. 

“If the CFMEU get their way, they will continue to bully and harass not only our builders and subcontractors, but our government officials, too.” 

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