His report helped spark Qld’s CFMEU probe. Now he wants a special prosecutor to act

The corruption-busting barrister whose investigation helped spark Queensland’s powerful probe into the CFMEU and construction sector has backed growing calls for an independent special prosecutor to act swiftly on any evidence of criminality.

Geoffrey Watson SC told this masthead he was a “great supporter” of the idea – first floated by the state’s peak union body – to ensure such serious matters are dealt with “as swiftly and efficiently as possible”, and before the inquiry’s final report, which is not due for 14 months.

But Watson added that the fact the year-old probe has itself heard evidence, including from himself, about a lack of action by police because of what they deemed to be industrial issues also meant that “maybe it’s a good idea to bring in an outsider”.

“Now, the whole point there is that that was something historic. Hopefully, that’s no longer the case, but it is another reason why a special prosecutor might be especially apt to deal with the present problems,” he said.

CFMEU administrators commissioned Watson’s probe into the construction union’s use of violence in Queensland following this masthead’s reporting of allegations of corruption and criminal links in the union nationwide, and the construction sector more broadly.

Watson’s report, published in July 2025, was the Crisafulli government’s catalyst to launch the Stuart Wood-led commission of inquiry – since extended to December 2027 with a budget of $95 million.

I’m a great supporter of the idea ... that a special prosecutor could be appointed right now. And I would ask the commissioner, Stuart Wood KC, to consider it.

Geoffrey Watson SC

Anti-corruption group Transparency International Australia’s chief executive, Clancy Moore, also backed Watson’s push for an independent special prosecutor, saying there was “merit” in such a role.

“The commissioner already has the power to refer matters to the Director of Public Prosecutions for potential prosecution, though these referrals may be left to the final report, which would not be due until December 2027,” Moore said.

After concerns from the estranged wife of former Victorian union leader John Setka and the launch of a similar Victorian inquiry and special prosecutor, the Queensland Council of Unions told this masthead Queensland’s inquiry should also feature such an arrangement.

“Queenslanders could be waiting until the end of 2027 – perhaps longer – for a final report on matters that may warrant investigation now and justice for those involved,” general secretary Jacqueline King said in a statement this month.

“The focus must be on accountability for what has occurred in the industry – not simply a final report, media headlines or political scalps.”

The inquiry has declined to say whether it has requested such an arrangement, or may do so in future, saying the decisions are a matter for the government. The government has repeatedly failed to respond to this masthead’s questions.

Evidence of wrongdoing or questionable action heard by the inquiry to date spans the police, CFMEU figures, the former Labor government, and the workplace safety regulator, along with major building firms.

Construction industry groups approached by this masthead have been less enthusiastic about the call for a special prosecutor.

Civil Contractors Federation Queensland chief executive Damian Long said the decision was one “for government and its legal experts and advisers”.

“What we can say is that we believe strongly that where there is a prima facie case for criminal wrongdoing presented at the inquiry, the QPS [Queensland Police Service] should conduct appropriate investigations,” Long said.

Master Builders Queensland deputy chief executive Michael Hopkins said: “The inquiry is already well-equipped to expose any criminal activity for investigation by law enforcement, and potential prosecution.”