Health Workers Union thrown into administration amid Asmar probe

Its investigation into the Asmars – revealed by this masthead – alleges a printing business received $2.7 million in HWU member funds for no service, with the money instead going into private accounts, and that more than $120,000 in reimbursements was claimed without evidence of relevant business expenses.

Justice Craig Dowling first made orders on October 7 limiting Asmar’s powers, including preventing her dismissing any employees or altering their employment.

Asmar gave an undertaking to the court she would follow the judge’s orders. She was called back to court early this month amid concerns she had been meting out punishment to “traitors”.

On December 13, Dowling restricted Asmar’s duties, preventing her from carrying out her role until the court decided whether to make the administration order.

The Health Services Union’s application is due to return to the Federal Court in April for an eight-day hearing.

The Fair Work Commission has launched a separate civil proceeding against Asmar, David Asmar, and five senior members of the HWU executive team over the printing cashback allegations.

With AAP

Our Breaking News Alert will notify you of significant breaking news when it happens. Get it here.