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Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) has distanced itself from a construction firm accused of exploitation of workers and “Mafia-style” intimidation tactics.
Investigations by The Sydney Morning Herald uncovered what the masthead described as “systemic worker exploitation” and “a series of terrifying attacks and threats” allegedly linked to Future Form, a subcontractor for the Western Sydney Airport metro line under Italian firm Webuild.
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According to the Herald, Future Form was allegedly linked to intimidation tactics against a CFMEU organiser, including a firebombing attack outside their home, while Webuild allegedly sought to cover up workplace breaches, including underpayment and denial of superannuation and income protection to employees.
In a statement, WSI acknowledged Webuild is a “major contractor” on the metro project, but said Future Form has not been involved in the bulk of construction work on the airport itself.
“The Metro construction and WSI Airport construction are separate infrastructure projects, being overseen by completely different entities,” the airport said.
“Future Form has not been involved in the delivery of WSI’s $5.3B package of Main Works Contracts to deliver the airport terminal, runway, airside and landside infrastructure.”
Future Form has also been subcontracted by CPB Contractors for form work on corporate office space and Customs canine kennels, and WSI said it is “not aware of any complaints or allegations of misconduct” at these sites.
“WSI Airport will cooperate fully with any inquiries conducted by the Fair Work Commission or law enforcement agencies should allegations of workplace misconduct or criminal activity be made in connection with any construction works on a WSI managed site,” it said.
“We have a thorough, ongoing assurance program in place to ensure contractors adhere to the highest safety and compliance standards at all times.”
A spokesperson for Sydney Metro this week told the Herald the NSW government would be undertaking an independent investigation into the “serious allegations raised about compliance”.
“Sydney Metro has zero tolerance for unethical or illegal practices on our construction sites, and all our delivery partners are expected to strictly comply with all laws, including the Fair Work Act and the NSW Industrial Relations Guidelines,” the statement read.
In a statement, Future Form has “categorically denied” the allegations against it.
“We stand by our team, our values, and the integrity with which we operate. Future Form has always conducted business transparently and professionally, and we remain proud of the work we do,” the firm said.
“We will be vigorously defending these allegations.”
NSW Premier Chris Minns earlier this year admitted concerns about the opening date for the metro, which could be pushed back into 2027 due to a dispute with the Parklife Metro consortium, as reported in The Sydney Morning Herald.
The airport has said it would have “contingency plans” in place if the metro line is not ready by the time it opens late next year.
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