A senior figure within the Construction, Forestry, and Maritime Employees Union (CFMEU), and close associate of ousted leader John Setka, has been sacked following explosive allegations that he accepted bribes and secret benefits from construction industry employers.
Union administrator Mark Irving KC announced the dismissal of John Perkovic on Thursday in a message sent to more than 500 CFMEU members, stating that the administration had obtained “compelling evidence,” including emails and admissions confirming the conduct.
“John Perkovic has been dismissed by the Administration for accepting a series of bribes and other secret benefits from employers in the construction industry,” the message read. “Mr Perkovic was given the opportunity to respond and has not provided any acceptable explanation. His position is therefore untenable.”
Mr Perkovic, who was appointed head of construction coordination in July — a position overseeing powerful site delegates — was regarded as one of the most influential figures in the Victorian branch and a long-time ally of Setka. His removal marks a significant setback for the union’s leadership as it attempts to rebuild its reputation following allegations of organised crime infiltration.
A spokesperson for the administrator declined to comment on the dismissal.
Perkovic’s appointment had already been controversial. A video resurfaced earlier this year showing him verbally abusing a Fair Work Building Industry Inspector, using coarse and threatening language. Despite this, he had been promoted within the union hierarchy before the latest revelations emerged.
The CFMEU has been under federal administration since last year, after a series of scandals exposed deep internal corruption and alleged links to criminal networks. Under Mark Irving’s leadership, more than 250 organisers were made redundant in an attempt to restore integrity and accountability.
The latest sacking adds to ongoing instability within the union, particularly as Victorian secretary Zach Smith continues to face scrutiny for reportedly meeting with Setka and underworld identity Mick Gatto.
Perkovic’s dismissal underscores the administrator’s determination to root out corruption within one of Australia’s most powerful unions — a union that remains under intense political and public scrutiny.
