CFMEU Inquiry Delayed as Counsel Cites Lack of Evidence Disclosure
The opening of a highly anticipated inquiry into the ousted state leadership of the CFMEU has been instantly stalled by a request for adjournment. Counsel representing former Queensland CFMEU officials are arguing their clients have been hampered by a lack of crucial evidence, perhaps jeopardizing a fair hearing.
The request to delay the first week of hearings, currently scheduled to begin in Brisbane Magistrates Court, was made by Ruth O’Gorman KC, representing former officials Michael Ravbar and Kane lowth. The request was presented to inquiry commissioner Stuart Wood AM KC on Thursday.
O’Gorman argued that despite the inquiry being underway as August, her clients have not received essential materials, despite repeated requests. A key concern centers on the report and findings of Geoffrey Watson SC, a union governance-appointed investigator slated to be the inquiry’s first witness.
“To the extent that Mr. Ravbar is committed to the possibility to defend himself by being given leave to appear in this commission, the question might be asked whether it’s fair that he be required to do so, essentially, with one hand tied behind his back,” O’Gorman stated. She emphasized the importance of transparency and fairness in the proceedings. “If this commission is to be conducted fairly, openly and transparently, as indeed it must, Mr. Ravbar requires those materials before Mr. Watson is called as a witness,so that he can properly prepare for and participate in the hearing.”
Adding weight to the application, Colin Mandy, representing former CFMEU official Jade Ingham, also joined the request for an adjournment. This unified front suggests a broad concern among the former leadership regarding their ability to adequately prepare a defense without full access to the inquiry’s evidence.
The request raises fundamental questions about the procedural fairness of the inquiry and the timely disclosure of evidence. The commissioner’s decision on the adjournment application will be critical in setting the tone for the proceedings and ensuring a just outcome for all parties involved. The lack of materials provided to the defense raises concerns about the inquiry’s commitment to a obvious and equitable process.
Why is this happening? Former CFMEU officials Michael Ravbar, Kane Lowth, and Jade Ingham are seeking an adjournment of the inquiry into the union’s ousted Queensland leadership. Thay claim they haven’t received essential evidence needed to prepare a defense.
Who is involved? Key figures include Ruth O’Gorman KC (representing Ravbar and lowth), Colin Mandy (representing ingham), stuart Wood AM KC (the inquiry commissioner), and Geoffrey Watson SC (the union-appointed investigator whose report is central to the dispute). The inquiry focuses on the former leadership of the CFMEU in Queensland.
What is at stake? The inquiry aims to investigate the circumstances surrounding the removal of the state leadership. The defense argues that without access to all evidence, the proceedings will be unfair and lack transparency. The commissioner’s decision will determine whether the inquiry proceeds as scheduled or is delayed to allow for proper planning.
How did it end? As of this report, the inquiry commissioner, Stuart Wood AM KC, has not yet ruled on the adjournment application. The outcome of this decision will dictate the immediate future of the inquiry and set the precedent for evidence disclosure throughout the proceedings. The inquiry remains stalled pending the commissioner’s response.
