CFMEU Melbourne Headquarters Raided as Police Investigate Alleged Construction Corruption

 Victoria Police have raided the Melbourne headquarters of the Construction, Forestry and Maritime Employees Union (CFMEU) as part of an investigation into alleged corruption within the state’s construction industry.

Detectives from Taskforce Hawk carried out search warrants at six Melbourne properties during a major police operation. The investigation is understood to involve allegations of secret commissions linked to construction sites across Victoria.

Police confirmed that five people were arrested during the operation and taken into custody for questioning. Authorities have not provided further information about the specific allegations or the individuals involved.

The CFMEU’s Elizabeth Street office in Melbourne was among the locations searched by investigators.

Police said the five people would be interviewed as detectives continued their inquiries.

The ABC has reported that some of those detained are believed to be CFMEU organisers employed by the union.

CFMEU Responds to Police Operation

CFMEU assistant administrator Matt McGowan said the union was aware of the police activity but would not comment while the investigation remained active.

In a statement, he said the organisation had been informed about the Taskforce Hawk operation and would not provide further details at this stage.

The police investigation is part of a broader effort to examine alleged criminal activity within Victoria’s construction sector.

Taskforce Hawk Examines Construction Industry

Taskforce Hawk was established by Victoria Police in June 2024 to investigate alleged criminal conduct in the construction industry.

Its work includes examining claims of organised crime involvement and the alleged infiltration of outlaw motorcycle gangs into major government infrastructure projects.

The taskforce has become part of a wider government response to concerns surrounding corruption and misconduct across the construction sector.

Victoria Royal Commission to Examine Allegations

The latest police operation comes as Victoria prepares for a royal commission into alleged corruption within the construction industry.

Victorian Premier Ben Carroll recently announced that former South Australian Supreme Court Chief Justice Christopher Kourakis would lead the inquiry.

The royal commission’s terms of reference cover a broad range of issues. These include the activities of the CFMEU, construction businesses and labour hire companies, as well as the responsibilities of government departments, senior public officials and agencies involved in major infrastructure projects.

Mr Carroll said the royal commission and police investigation would operate alongside each other.

He argued that multiple avenues were needed to examine the allegations, with police continuing criminal investigations while the royal commission would have powers to compel witnesses and obtain evidence.

A special prosecutor is also expected to work with the royal commission where further legal action is required.

Police are expected to provide additional information about the Melbourne raids and the ongoing investigation later in the day.

Source - By Melissa Brown and investigative reporter Jess Longbottom