Fair Work Amendment (Disqualified Officers) Bill 2026

Stage by Stage

Summaries in reported speech - not a transcript. In date order, both chambers.

1. Wednesday 19 August 2026 · Senate

   First Reading
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2. Wednesday 19 August 2026 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The debate concerned the Fair Work Amendment (Disqualified Officers) Bill 2026, which sought to remove the five-year statutory limit on disqualifying union officers. Senator Maria Kovacic argued that the current limit was insufficient given the severity of misconduct within the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union. She cited specific examples of criminal behaviour and intimidation directed at administrators to justify extending disciplinary powers. The bill aimed to allow for indefinite disqualification and clarify the status of disqualified persons. The debate was adjourned with leave granted for further remarks.

   Outcome: Debate adjourned with leave granted for the senator to continue remarks later.

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3. Wednesday 9 September 2026 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The Senate debated the Fair Work Amendment (Disqualified Officers) Bill 2026, which seeks to remove the five-year statutory limit on disqualifying union officers and clarify that disqualified persons cannot hold positions in other registered organisations. Liberal and One Nation senators argued the bill was necessary to prevent corrupt officials, particularly within the CFMEU, from returning to power after short bans, citing evidence of intimidation and criminal links. Labor senators opposed the bill, arguing it was a political distraction that ignored broader industry issues like wage theft and safety failures by employers, while claiming the current administration had already removed over 200 office holders. The debate concluded with the matter adjourned.

   Outcome: The debate was adjourned with leave granted for Senator Brockman to continue remarks later.

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