Queensland Cross River Rail staff report union threats during inquiry

Middle-management figures involved in Queensland’s $9.83 billion Cross River Rail project have testified to a state inquiry regarding a 2023 CFMEU-led blockade. Witnesses described feeling “abandoned” by senior leadership after reporting threats during a standoff that reportedly involved weapons and interstate individuals.

The incident followed a serious workplace injury at the Boggo Road station site on July 25, 2023. In the ensuing days, CFMEU-led blockades at main site access points occurred, including the locking of gates and instructions for workers to return home. Testimony provided to the Commission of Inquiry into the CFMEU and Misconduct in the Construction Industry indicated that site managers were directed by superiors not to contact the police during the standoff.

Evidence was provided by representatives from the CPB Contractors joint venture and partner UGL, detailing the confrontation and the subsequent impact on the multi-billion dollar taxpayer-funded rail project.