Cross River Rail Boss Alleges CFMEU Purposefully Caused Delays and Budget Overruns

Inquiry hears claims union disrupted critical work to force rescheduling and hinder project milestones

Mar. 18, 2026 at 10:06am

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Queensland's inquiry into the CFMEU has heard allegations from the chief executive of the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority that the union 'purposefully' disrupted work on the Cross River Rail project in Brisbane, aiming to maximize construction delays and budget overruns. The claims include instances of the CFMEU adopting a 'strategic and tactical approach to site disruption' through rallies, protests, and other industrial action that targeted critical works to 'force significant rescheduling' and hinder project milestones.

Why it matters

Allegations of deliberate disruption and attempts to influence procurement processes raise serious questions about the integrity of large-scale infrastructure projects and the potential for undue influence by external actors. The focus on maximizing delays and cost overruns suggests a strategic intent beyond standard industrial action.

The details

According to testimony from Graeme Newton, the Cross River Rail project was halted for 148 days between April and December 2024 due to an enterprise bargaining dispute. Newton detailed specific actions by union members, including pouring concrete into toilets, damaging concrete pumps, and stealing keys from subcontractors. He also alleged the CFMEU engaged in a 'misinformation campaign,' consistently making 'unsubstantiated claims' about worksite safety through social media and media organizations.

  • Construction on the Cross River Rail project was halted for 148 days between April and December 2024 due to an enterprise bargaining dispute.
  • The inquiry comes after all branches of the construction arm of the CFMEU were placed into administration in 2024 following allegations of infiltration by bikie gangs and crime syndicates.

The players

Graeme Newton

Chief executive of the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority.

Michael Ravbar

Senior CFMEU official.

Jade Ingham

Senior CFMEU official.

Jackie Trad

Former Deputy Premier of Queensland who allegedly had a 'direct line of communication' with the CFMEU.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.