Nick McKenzie on CFMEU corruption and Labor’s blind eye
Feb 17, 2026 •
The CFMEU construction union has been under a cloud since investigative journalist Nick McKenzie started digging into allegations of corruption in 2024. Bikie figures, organised crime, intimidation. All taking place on major government-funded projects.
Now, a report has laid out all those stories in one place. And even Nick says he was stunned by the scale of it.
The report's author, barrister Geoffery Watson, not only tore the CFMEU to shreds - but also claimed the Victorian government knew about the problems, and failed to act.
But that section of Watson's report, that questioned the Victorian Labor government, was deleted before the report was published.
Today, Nine newspapers investigative reporter Nick McKenzie, on the incredible scale of the corruption at the CFMEU, and the serious questions the government has to answer.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
Nick McKenzie on CFMEU corruption and Labor’s blind eye
1822 • Feb 17, 2026
Nick McKenzie on CFMEU corruption and Labor’s blind eye
The CFMEU construction union has been under a cloud since investigative journalist Nick McKenzie started digging into allegations of corruption in 2024. Bikie figures, organised crime, intimidation. All taking place on major government-funded projects.
Now, a report has laid out all those stories in one place. And even Nick says he was stunned by the scale of it.
The report's author, barrister Geoffery Watson, not only tore the CFMEU to shreds - but also claimed the Victorian government knew about the problems, and failed to act.
But that section of Watson's report, that questioned the Victorian Labor government, was deleted before the report was published.
Today, Nine newspapers investigative reporter Nick McKenzie, on the incredible scale of the corruption at the CFMEU, and the serious questions the government has to answer.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
Guest: Nick McKenzie, Nine newspapers investigative reporter
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