Construction union wants ACT jobs code toughened as critics push to scrap it
The construction union says the code stops ethical firms racing to the bottom on price for government work.
The Construction, Forestry and Maritime Employees Union (CFMEU) wants the ACT's Secure Local Jobs Code made stronger. The code is part of the ACT's 'two-gate' system, which critics say gives unions too much say over tenders.
The union says the code stops ethical firms racing to the bottom on price for government work. The ACT Integrity Commission found serious corrupt conduct in a primary school upgrade.
The conduct came from efforts to curry favour with the union. Yvette Berry, then deputy chief minister, resigned from cabinet after the commission's findings.
No findings were made against Ms Berry. The Canberra Business Chamber wants the code abolished, and Master Builders says it is neither necessary nor effective.
The Property Council wants it dropped unless an independent evaluation shows it produces extra public value beyond existing law.
Why it mattersGroups giving evidence to a parliamentary inquiry disagree on whether the code should stay.
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