AWU Organiser Tells Inquiry of Alleged Intimidation by CFMEU Members

James Downie gave evidence before the inquiry, recounting an incident that occurred in mid-2023 while he and a colleague were visiting the Cross River Rail project at Woolloongabba.

According to Downie, a large group of CFMEU members confronted the two AWU representatives as they attempted to leave the site. He alleged that the group shouted insults, grabbed at his backpack, and physically pushed him as he tried to make his way across Stanley Street toward a nearby shopping centre.

Downie told the hearing that the situation became particularly dangerous when the alleged pushing forced him toward oncoming traffic.

“They charged at me with such force that I was bumped off the pedestrian walkway and there was a large truck coming at me,” he said.

He said he had to quickly move back toward the pedestrian crossing to avoid being struck.

“I had to throw my body back at the pedestrian crossing to get back onto the street, because if I hadn’t, I would’ve been hit by the truck.”

According to his testimony, the truck passed so close that he could feel the wind against his backpack.

“After that I just started running,” he said.

Downie told the inquiry that the group later cornered him and his colleague near a staircase leading into the shopping centre. CCTV footage of the incident was played during the hearing.

He alleged that members of the group attempted to provoke a physical confrontation and made threatening remarks during the encounter. Among the allegations presented to the inquiry were claims that comments were made referencing his young family, which he described as particularly disturbing.

The inquiry is examining allegations of inappropriate conduct, intimidation, and workplace culture issues involving sections of the CFMEU and interactions with representatives from rival unions.

The CFMEU has previously faced scrutiny from regulators and government inquiries over allegations involving conduct at construction sites, although findings relating to individual incidents remain subject to investigation and legal processes.

The Queensland inquiry continues to hear evidence from union representatives, workers, and other witnesses as it examines claims of misconduct and workplace behaviour within the construction industry.