In a surprising twist, the Industrial Relations Amendment (Administrator) Bill 2024 has revealed a political reversal in New South Wales. The Liberal Party, usually hostile to unions, introduced amendments advocating for due process and judicial oversight, including a Royal Commission to investigate the CFMEU. Meanwhile, the Labour Party, traditionally a defender of unions, blocked these proposals and passed the bill in its most draconian form, granting sweeping powers to a government-appointed administrator. This move has raised concerns about executive overreach and undermined union independence, leaving many questioning Labour’s commitment to transparency and fairness.

The Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Amendment (Administration) Bill 2024 places the CFMEU under government-appointed control, stripping the union of its autonomy for five years. The bill grants the administrator dictatorial powers, including the removal of officials, control over union assets, and the ability to alter union rules without fair process. Fines of up to $990,000 and imprisonment threaten those who oppose the administrator. This legislation weakens worker representation, undermines union democracy, and endangers safety standards, particularly in high-risk industries like construction, where union advocacy is crucial. We must unite to resist this attack on worker rights.