Statement on the Terms of Reference for the Royal Commission into Trade Union Governance and Corruption

“The terms of reference released by the government today for the Royal Commission into Trade Union Governance and Corruption provide for a welcome opportunity to ensure that alleged union corruption and misconduct can be fully investigated, wherever it arises,” Business Council of Australia Chief Executive Jennifer Westacott said.

“As well as looking at the allegations that have come to light recently, the Royal Commission should investigate whether there are systemic governance and accountability failures which have allowed such serious alleged instances of misconduct, criminality and corruption to occur.

“The alleged corrupt conduct in the building and construction sector risks increasing the already high cost of major projects, undermines the right of people in the workplace to conduct their jobs in a safe and productive environment, and diminishes the confidence that the community can place in the broader union movement.

“While the commission completes its important work at the end of this year, the parliament can act to effectively combat bullying, corruption and misconduct on building sites immediately by voting to restore the Australian Building and Construction Commission.”

For further information contact:
Matt Newton, Communications Adviser
Business Council of Australia
Telephone (03) 8664 2627 | Mobile 0409 550 578