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Constructing Fear: home

A documentary exposing the activity of an industrial inquisition targeting building workers across Australia. “Constructing Fear” shows how these workers are the front line in an attack on civil liberties that has implications for every Australian.

Since 2005, the Australian Building Construction Commission (ABCC) has targeted hundreds of workers.  The ABCC conducts closed tribunals and seeks individual fines of up to $28,600. Those summonsed cannot refuse to attend a hearing; they cannot refuse to answer questions and they cannot tell anyone, including their families, what happened in the hearing. Penalty? Six months in prison!

The ABCC’s operations have been described as "…foreign to the workplace relations of civilised societies, as distinct from undemocratic and authoritarian states." (Federal Court Justice Marshall, 2004)


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Director of the film, Joe Loh:

"People in a democracy should feel free to stand up for themselves, to speak out, and if necessary to act to improve their society. These rights have been taken away from building workers in Australia. Many are understandably intimidated, and despite feeling unjustly treated would not appear in the film. Those that do appear are unique individuals. Their stories shocked me, but their strength and courage gives me great hope. The film belongs to them. I hope you enjoy it. " More...