A commission of inquiry into a controversial construction union will now run for twice as long as originally expected due to the volume of evidence against the scandal-plagued organisation.
The inquiry, examining alleged past wrongdoing by the CFMEU in Queensland, kicked off in August last year with the commission due to report to the state government in July.
But on Sunday, the government approved an 18-month extension following "explosive evidence" and due to the volume of material and additional time needed to cross-examine relevant witnesses.
"The extension will ensure the commission has sufficient time to fully investigate the serious allegations that have emerged," a statement read.
The revised deadline of December 3 next year will allow for additional public hearings, the presentation of further case studies, and the cross-examination of key persons alleged to have engaged in wrongdoing.
