The Federal Government has passed legislation that will abolish the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC) through the Senate.

 

Under the legislation, the Australian Building and Construction Commission will be abolished. The ABCC will be replaced the Office of the Fair Work Building Industry Inspectorate, a move welcomed by the CFMEU and criticized by various industry groups.

 

“Compulsory examination notice will be retained, however they will now be subject to a number of significant safeguards proposed by Justice Wilcox.  The powers will sunset after 3 years, but only after a comprehensive review.  In addition, the legislation creates an office, the Independent Assessor who may make a determination that the compulsory examination notice powers will not apply to a particular project,” Minister for Workplace Relations Bill Shorten said in a statement.

 

“The Government believes this legislation balances the requirements to ensure compliance with the law and the fair treatment of individuals in the building and construction industry.”

 

The bill passed the Upper House with the support of the Greens, with the Federal Opposition maintaining its opposition to the legislation.