Thousands of workers have left their tools behind to rally across Australia today after the CFMEU was placed into administration following corruption allegations.
Victoria Police estimated Melbourne had the biggest protest, with up to 50,000 people attending.
Police made no arrests and the protests were reportedly peaceful.
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Construction, Forestry and Maritime Employees Union members gathered wearing high-vis and wielding signs reading “Hands of the CFMEU”.
The protest comes despite the Fair Work Ombudsman warning of penalties for those involved in unprotected action.
Union leaders have called the move an attack on worker’s rights.
Queensland ETU secretary Peter Ong told protesters, “This is not an attack on the CFMEU, this is an attack on the trade union movement”.
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