Over 10,000 workers participated in protests across Australia, primarily in Sydney's CBD, against the federal government's decision to place the Construction, Forestry and Maritime Employees Union (CFMEU) into administration.

The protests were ignited by Attorney General Mark Dreyfus's controversial decision, which followed allegations of organized crime and corruption linked to CFMEU members.

This federal takeover has raised significant concerns among union members, who fear it could set a dangerous precedent for other unions and threaten workers' rights.

Protesters voiced their anger towards the Labor government, perceiving the administration as a betrayal despite the union's historical ties to the party.

Critics, including opposition workplace relations spokeswoman Michaelia Cash, attributed the protests to the government's mismanagement of the situation.

A flyer distributed at the rally labeled the administration as a significant act of union busting, drawing parallels to the deregistration of the Builders Labourers Federation in 1986.

While the protests remained peaceful, union leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining a non-violent stance amidst rising tensions.

Victoria's Industrial Relations Minister Tim Pallas described the current CFMEU protests as unjustified and unlawful, despite acknowledging the right to industrial action.

Police estimated that around 50,000 protesters gathered in Melbourne, with thousands more in Sydney and Brisbane, as demonstrators occupied streets and disrupted traffic.

The protests concluded peacefully around midday, with many participants heading to local pubs, reflecting a strong sense of solidarity among workers.

Former CFMEU officials criticized the Labor Party's actions, labeling the administration decision a 'political stitch-up' and calling for a reevaluation of union leadership.

Queensland Premier Steven Miles defended the government's actions while acknowledging the right to protest, highlighting the delicate balance between regulation and workers' rights.