Latest turn for CFMEU as construction arm placed in immediate administration

The federal government's move follows allegations of corruption and links to bikie organisations.

CFMEU's contruction arm have been put into administration. Source: AAP / Jono Searle

The construction arm of the Construction, Mining, Forestry and Maritime Employees Union (CFMEU) has been placed in immediate administration.

Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus said on Friday the ruling applied to the union's construction and general division as well its state and territory branches.

Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus has placed the CFMEU's construction division into administration. Source: AAP / Mick Tsikas

Melbourne barrister Mark Irving will administer the CFMEU's construction arm and will work with Fair Work Commission general manager Murray Furlong.

The pair will work to ensure the construction and general divisions can effectively operate in the future.

"I am committed to ensuring the success of this arrangement and advancing the lawful operations of the construction and general division for the benefit of its members, the broader CFMEU and the Australian community," Furlong said.

Furlong will help hold the CFMEU officials accountable, promote the union's efficient management, embed the CFMEU with a culture of good governance and compliance with the law and take any enforcement actions when necessary.

The government's move follows allegations of corruption and bikie infiltration within the CFMEU.

The union has criticised the move as taking away the rights of members to a fair process and signalled an impending court challenge.

CFMEU national secretary Zach Smith has previously said the criminal allegations remain untested.

The administration period can last up to five years under the law and officials found guilty of crimes would be banned for life and unable to become bargaining agents at other registered organisations without holding a fit-and-proper-person certificate.