In a significant display of dissent this morning, hundreds of CFMEU (Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union) members took to the streets of Brisbane to protest against the union’s forced administration. The protesters caught many morning commuters by surprise, prompting police intervention to manage traffic and ensure safety during the demonstration.
The protest was sparked by the High Court’s recent dismissal of the CFMEU’s appeal against this administration, which members fiercely contested, claiming that the Queensland branch had not been involved in any wrongdoing that warranted such a takeover.
Mark Irving, the administrator overseeing the construction division, addressed the situation by emphasising that the High Court’s ruling is conclusive. He informed staff and members that participation in the protest could be considered unlawful industrial action and instructed them to return to work. Irving urged calm among the demonstrators, highlighting the need for unity within the union to regain control from administrators.
The rally lasted over four hours, featuring multiple speakers calling for solidarity and action. Tensions escalated as union members threatened to initiate a work stoppage lasting 48 hours if their demands for a meeting with the Queensland branch were not met. The escalating situation underscores the ongoing discord within the union and its members’ determination to fight against what they perceive as unjust governance.