Ex-CFMEU administrator defends keeping controversial ‘Youth Crew’ at inquiry

In testimony before a parliamentary inquiry on Thursday, Mark Irving, the former administrator of the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU), argued that the union’s ‘Youth Crew’ — a group that has drawn criticism for its aggressive tactics — should not be disbanded. Irving described the young members as passionate advocates who, if properly guided, could bring positive reform to the union movement.

“Young activists can be a vehicle for change,” Irving told the inquiry. “It is important that we do not write off an entire generation of workers because of the actions of a few.”

The ‘Youth Crew’ has been at the centre of controversy for years, with allegations of intimidation, harassment, and links to organised crime. Critics have called for the group to be abolished, arguing that it operates as a para-military wing within the union and has no place in modern industrial relations.

Irving, who was appointed to administer the CFMEU after the federal government intervened amid corruption allegations, acknowledged the group’s troubled past but insisted that reform from within was possible. He pointed to recent changes in leadership and training programs aimed at curbing misconduct.

At the same time, Irving unequivocally ruled out any future role for Jade Ingham, a former CFMEU official who has been linked to the ‘Youth Crew’. Ingham was stood down amid the same corruption probe that led to the appointment of an administrator. Irving said Ingham’s conduct had been “unacceptable” and that there was no place for him in the union’s future.

The inquiry is examining whether the union has adequately addressed systemic issues of thuggery and racketeering. The Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC) has previously flagged the ‘Youth Crew’ as a key concern, and several industry groups have welcomed Irving’s remarks on Ingham but remain sceptical about the retention of the group.

“While we appreciate Mr Irving’s candour, the proof will be in the pudding,” said a spokesperson for Master Builders Australia. “Industry has seen too many promises of reform that have not materialised.”

Why This Matters

The CFMEU’s internal culture has been under intense scrutiny, with the federal government placing the union into administration last year. The outcome of this inquiry could influence future government intervention in union governance.
The ‘Youth Crew’ has been accused of intimidating workers and employers on building sites. Its continued existence — even with reforms — could affect workplace relations and safety in the construction sector, a major driver of the Australian economy.
The ruling out of Jade Ingham signals a potential shift in union leadership dynamics, but also highlights ongoing internal divisions over how to handle controversial figures and groups.

Background

The CFMEU, one of Australia’s most powerful unions, was placed under administration in 2023 after a series of allegations involving corruption, organised crime, and violent conduct. The federal government appointed Mark Irving as administrator to oversee reforms. The ‘Youth Crew’ has been a longstanding flashpoint, with critics claiming it operates outside official union structures. Jade Ingham, a former union organiser, was among several officials stood down during the administration. The current inquiry, conducted by a parliamentary committee, is examining the effectiveness of the administration and whether lasting cultural change is possible.

Key Perspectives

[Mark Irving, former administrator]: Irving believes young activists can be reformed and used as a force for positive change. He sees the ‘Youth Crew’ as a vehicle for engaging young workers, not an inherently corrupt entity. His ruling out of Jade Ingham aims to show that the union will not tolerate misconduct by individuals. [CFMEU leadership (current)]: The union’s current leadership has publicly supported reform but has been wary of dismantling groups that enjoy grassroots support. They argue that the ‘Youth Crew’ represents the energy and militancy that has historically protected workers’ rights. [Critics and industry groups]: Master Builders Australia and other employer bodies remain deeply sceptical. They point to a long history of broken promises and argue that the only way to ensure accountability is to abolish the ‘Youth Crew’ entirely. They question whether any reform can survive Irving’s departure.

What to Watch

The parliamentary committee’s final recommendations, expected later this year, particularly on the future of the ‘Youth Crew’.
Any further evidence of misconduct or recidivism within the group, which would undermine Irving’s defence.
The response from the federal government and whether it extends the administration period or imposes new conditions on the union.

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