Episode Details

Paul Smith, a whistleblower from Queenslands workplace health and safety regulator, revealed at an inquiry into the CFMEU union that the union operated like the mafia, controlling the regulator to push their agenda. Smith testified that former union boss Michael Ravbar dictated everything, and the regulator complied, even handling minor complaints as major disasters. After the union was put into administration in August 2024, things improved. Smith criticized his own department for spineless leadership and pressure on inspectors, leading to a surge in safety notices. He also warned ex-industrial relations minister Grace Grace about the unions demands. New details emerged on a senior official, Helen Burgess, who was under investigation for alleged ties to a union leader. Smith filed a complaint against her in 2022, but she was only suspended on full pay in December 2024. The inquiry is set to conclude in July 2025, highlighting the need for real accountability on job sites.

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