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Government Defends CFMEU Inquiry Amid Corruption Allegations

2/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Albanese government is criticized for its handling of the CFMEU corruption inquiry.
Former workplace minister Murray Watt defended Mark Irving, the appointed administrator, against calls for his dismissal from the opposition.
The opposition claims Irving redacted key findings from a report estimating $15 billion in taxpayer losses due to CFMEU-related corruption.
Watt stated that the redactions were based on lack of verification, not bias.
The government maintains full confidence in Irving's administration despite accusations of a cover-up from Liberal Senator Maria Kovacic.

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Story summary

The Albanese government is criticized for its handling of the CFMEU corruption inquiry.
Former workplace minister Murray Watt defended Mark Irving, the appointed administrator, against calls for his dismissal from the opposition.
The opposition claims Irving redacted key findings from a report estimating $15 billion in taxpayer losses due to CFMEU-related corruption.
Watt stated that the redactions were based on lack of verification, not bias.
The government maintains full confidence in Irving's administration despite accusations of a cover-up from Liberal Senator Maria Kovacic.