Construction Workers Protest CFMEU Administration in Australia

In a significant protest, over 10,000 construction workers rallied across major Australian cities against the federal government's decision to place the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) into administration, amid corruption allegations. The protests included chants of 'union power' and saw large gatherings in Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, where demonstrators condemned the government's actions and criticized union leadership. Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton accused Treasurer Jim Chalmers of being 'dangerous and divisive', arguing that the government is failing to address the economic challenges facing Australians. Dutton challenged Chalmers to focus on the cost of living crisis instead of targeting him. In a separate legal matter, a class action against building firms over flammable cladding linked to the Grenfell Tower fire continues in court, with plaintiffs claiming the materials were misrepresented as safe. The case against 3A Composites and Halifax Vogal Group is expected to last 40 days, seeking damages for alleged negligence in marketing and safety assurances.