Geoffrey Watson SC, whose report was the catalyst for the Stuart Wood KC-led inquiry, told The Age he was a "great supporter" of the idea, first floated by the state's peak union body, to ensure serious matters are dealt with "as swiftly and efficiently as possible". He asked Commissioner Wood to consider it.
Watson said the year-old probe had heard evidence, including from himself, about a lack of action by police because they deemed matters to be industrial issues. "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 reporting of allegations of corruption and criminal links in the union nationwide. His report, published in July 2025, led the Crisafulli government to establish the inquiry, since extended to December 2027 with a budget of $95 million.
Anti-corruption group Transparency International Australia also backed the push. Chief executive Clancy Moore said the commissioner already had power to refer matters to the Director of Public Prosecutions, "though these referrals may be left to the final report, which would not be due until December 2027".
Queensland Council of Unions general secretary Jacqueline King said Queenslanders could be waiting until the end of 2027, or longer, for a final report on matters that may warrant investigation now. "The focus must be on accountability for what has occurred in the industry, not simply a final report, media headlines or political scalps," she said.
The inquiry declined to say whether it had requested such an arrangement, saying decisions were a matter for the government, which has not responded to questions.
Construction industry groups were more cautious. Civil Contractors Federation Queensland chief executive Damian Long said the decision was for government, but where a prima facie case of criminal wrongdoing was presented, the Queensland Police Service should investigate. Master Builders Queensland deputy chief executive Michael Hopkins said the inquiry was "already well-equipped to expose any criminal activity for investigation by law enforcement, and potential prosecution".
Commissioner Wood planned to write an interim report this month with recommendations on a new state construction code and regulator. Hearings resume on October 27.