The crisis that has brought the Ararat prison site to a halt was caused by faulty windows and doors imported from China, says CFMEU Victoria.

Subcontractors withdrew their workers last week after learning builder St Hilliers was unable to pay outstanding bills. The company has now been placed in administration as a result of losses arising on the job.

CFMEU Victoria State Secretary Bill Oliver says the problems at Ararat prison have two causes.

“Firstly, the Bailieu government has failed to engage with its partner on the  project to get the job done,” he stated. “Secondly, they've made the project more expensive, and cost local jobs by sourcing materials from China, which didn't work.”