Police taskforce established to probe union corruption

The Prime Minister has unleashed a 30-strong State-Federal Task Force to probe union corruption.

Weighed down by evidence of widespread crime, the Royal Commission into unions had requested police investigations begin as soon as possible.

It will initially go after the construction industry, in particular the CFMEU, but companies as well.

The taskforce starts in Victoria, but will very quickly spread to New South Wales and Queensland.

Tony Abbott said the nation must "stamp out" union corruption and organised crime links.

"I don't think any decent person wants to see unions contaminated by organised crime," he said.

"The rule of law must operate everywhere."

Victorian premier Denis Napthine said the taskforce would "go wherever the evidence leads it".

Facing an election, Dr Napthine has been toe-to-toe with Mr Abbott over the politically toxic GST and increased fuel tax, but they were arm-in-arm on this.

Opposition leader Bill Shorten raised the taskforce idea seven months ago, instead of a Royal Commission.

"The workplace and industrial relations is no place for criminal activity," Mr Shorten said.

The ACTU branded the announcement a "red hot political stunt".

The Royal Commission has had its terms widened. It has been given another 12 months and is now due to report late next year.