Key safety regulator figure had ‘close personal relationship’ with former CFMEU president, inquiry told

3 months ago 17

A key public servant was in a personal relationship with the former president of the Queensland CFMEU branch as it warred with a rival union over civil construction projects, a commission of inquiry into the union has heard.

Australian Workers’ Union state secretary Stacey Schinnerl revealed Royce Kupsch was the previously unnamed building union official with close links to the state workplace safety regulator.

Schinnerl told the inquiry Kupsch’s relationship with former construction compliance and field services director Helen Burgess added to concerns about how police dealt with workplace disputes.

The CFMEU’s then president, Royce Kupsch (centre), with Jade Ingham (left) and Michael Ravbar (right).

The powerful inquiry was launched by the Queensland government after reporting by this masthead and 60 Minutes into criminality, corruption and misconduct in the CFMEU and the industry nationwide.

During her second day of evidence on Thursday, Schinnerl outlined her concerns about a police memorandum of understanding with the state’s office of industrial relations.

Schinnerl confirmed reporting by this masthead last week that a version of the document, setting out how the regulator and police shared responsibilities, appeared to inaccurately reflect the law.

She said particular sections and references to the state-registered CFMEU were a “do-around” to enable that union’s officials to access worksites without federal entry permits.

“What is contemplated here is not actually practically possible,” Schinnerl said, explaining police were also required to notify the industrial relations office about any workplace entry disputes.

The fact that one of the first points of contact was Helen Burgess “exacerbated her [Schinnerl’s] concerns”.

“I know her to be associated with the CFMEU by virtue of a close personal relationship she had, or has, with the then president, Royce Kupsch,” Schinnerl told the inquiry.

“I would have inferred that as a direct line to the CFMEU … given Ms Burgess’ close association with the CFMEU.”

Schinnerl then referenced past, and current, allegations and investigations against Burgess before the state’s Crime and Corruption Commission.

Burgess was named in CFMEU administration investigator Geoffrey Watson’s June report into union violence as a former bureaucrat being probed by the corruption watchdog.

Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie, who in opposition complained to the CCC about Burgess, told parliament in February her home had been raided by the agency and that she had been suspended.

The Office of Industrial Relations has previously declined to answer questions about Burgess’ employment, relationship with the CFMEU, or agreement.

This masthead has also independently tried to reach Burgess.

The inquiry heard evidence earlier this week that the CFMEU had sought to control a former head of the regulator, then launched a campaign against them after access was walked back.

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