By Luke Voogt
The CFMEU and its officials copped $190,800 in fines for an unlawful industrial action at three Geelong projects following a Federal Court ruling.
Justice Christopher Jessup fined the union following stop-work actions at Geelong hospital, St John of God Hospital and Geelong Library during April and May 2014.
The court found there were no issues or grievances “that justified … the organisation of the industrial action”.
Justice Jessup found the “arrogant” approach of the CFMEU and its officials “had the explicit object of inflicting commercial harm on (the contractor)”.
The court fined the union $44,800 relating to a $115m Geelong Hospital development, $102,400 for a $49m St John of God Hospital development and $43,600 relating to the $45m Geelong Library.
Justice Jessup imposed $590,800 in fines for nine projects in Victoria in the ruling – $490,000 for the CFMEU and $100,800 for 10 of its officials.
Australian Building and Construction Commission Commissioner Nigel Hadgkiss welcomed the decision Tuesday.
“These are substantial penalties for unlawful industrial action which stopped work on key public projects worth nearly half a billion dollars,” Mr Hadgkiss said.
“Today’s decision shows that the CFMEU cannot ignore its obligations under Australia’s workplace laws.
“The ABCC will continue to work towards ensuring all in the industry, whether workers, unions, or employers, comply with the law. Flagrant disregard for workplace laws cannot be tolerated.”
The Indy contacted CFMEU and Geelong Trades Hall for comment.
