CFMEU NSW will launch compliance checks across the construction industry as the union seeks to stamp out sham contracting and the underpayment of workers.
Organisers, delegates and leaders will visit sites to ensure employers are complying with safety standards and enterprise agreements.
The announcement of increased compliance checks comes after 60 Minutes aired serious allegations against major formwork company Future Form.
CFMEU NSW Executive Officer Michael Crosby said the union wanted to see reform from both within its own ranks and through the broader industry.
“Too often, the former administration of the union turned a blind eye to non-compliance. As a result, for too many employers, adherence to the Enterprise Bargaining Agreement became purely optional,” Mr Crosby said.
“The use of bikie gang members as enforcers has been one of the reasons for the union’s inaction.
“The union will do its job no matter the cost. Once an employer signs an enterprise bargaining agreement it must abide by its terms. When non-compliance is detected on a large scale, prosecutions will follow.
“At the same time, both employers and clients have a role to play. The whole industry has to lift its game so that good employers don't suffer from unfair competition from the industry’s bad actors.
“Construction is one of the most dangerous industries in Australia. Without a strong union, workers die. We will be redoubling our efforts to make sure that workers go home each night safely to their family.
“We won’t take a backwards step when it comes to enforcing the law. Employers have been put on notice. The CFMEU is undertaking major reform to ensure we have the highest standards of integrity. We expect that our industry partners will match that commitment.
“My call on employers is simple: join us. Clients, contractors, regulators, governments and workers must unite to drum out the criminals and shonks.”
Contact: Matt Coughlan 0400 561 480 / [email protected]
