Fighting for Credit: Coalition in Political Tug-of-War over CFMEU Bill

Following disagreements in passing the bill to place the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining, and Energy Union (CFMEU) under administration, some Coalition and Independent MPs took credit for raising the issue and ensuring the bill’s passage.

Arguments erupted as soon as the bill was introduced in the House after amendments by the Home Minister Tony Burke.

Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Sussan Ley, accused the Labor government of falling into its own trap, claiming they were funded by the CFMEU and won the last election using union funds. She emphasized that only the Coalition had the courage to stand up to the CFMEU and commended the bill to the House.

Ley highlighted the “deep irony” of the situation, stating, “Today is an important day in our national story. It is the day that the Australian Labor Party has been forced to deal with a monster of its own making.”

The opposition also criticized the government for rushing the legislation into Parliament without sufficient consultation.

“We secured a key amendment that the administration period lasts for a minimum of three years. That will ensure that the CFMEU faces scrutiny today, tomorrow, over the coming months, and after the election.”

The opposition also acknowledged the contributions of media outlets and the Senate in securing the bill’s passage.

Shadow Minister for Housing Michael Sukkar highlighted the long-term impact of CFMEU’s actions on driving up construction costs in the country, especially in the residential housing industry.

Adam Bandt, leader of the Australian Greens, criticized the bill as rushed legislation with consequences that have not been fully considered.

“The government, in its own words, has brought in an unprecedented piece of legislation and the toughest action ever taken against any union. In doing this in such a rushed way, no one has read the law yet, and you still need to know the consequences,” Bandt said.