Two teams of investigators with experience in integrity matters were assembled to uncover corruption within the CFMEU union, but were promptly disbanded.
The Albanese government's CFMEU reform chief, Mark Irving KC, abandoned these anti-corruption teams, leaving serious misconduct allegations unaddressed for months. During this time, suspected corrupt officials took on key roles within the union.
Irving was concerned that seeking more powers from the federal government to deal with wrongdoing could risk reviving calls for the coalition's Australian Building and Construction Commission.
Confidential sources, including former AFP officer Chris Craner, who was recruited to help investigate wrongdoing at the CFMEU, confirmed that Irving failed to enact advice to seek more powers from the federal government.
Author's summary: Corruption investigation in CFMEU union hindered by administrator.