“Today’s commitment by Minister Watt to use the National Construction Industry Forum as a conduit through which to move the building and construction industry away from the longstanding and recently high-profile allegations of lawlessness is a further positive move by the Government,” said HIA Managing Director Jocelyn Martin.

“While the appointment of an administer to the CFMEU is an important reset to start cultural change in the industry more needs to be done to send a clear message that the past conduct and behaviour of the CFMEU is not appropriate and has no place going forward.

“Long term reform and structural change is needed to address these issues once and for all and the Forum is uniquely placed to assist in this task.

“As a long-standing member of the tripartite Forum, HIA has participated collaboratively with a view to building a productive, safe and vibrant building and construction industry. HIA looks forward to continuing this work under the leadership of a government committed to ridding the industry of systemic issues identified in a number of past Royal Commissions, court cases and various government inquiries.

“The current business environment under which the CFMEU can conduct its activities lacks the accountability and transparency required of the rest of Australian businesses. It should surprise no one that the clandestine business environment afforded to the CFMEU is an enabler to corruption and poor business practices.

"The current situation, while difficult, is an opportunity for widespread and meaningful reform, accountability and transparency.

“HIA welcomes the opportunity to participate in this dialogue,” concluded Ms Martin.