Hundreds of defiant CFMEU workers have taken to the streets in protest after a legal challenge by the embattled organisation was rejected.
Union members surprised morning commuters by marching in Brisbane early on Thursday, causing traffic delays and all but shutting down the CBD.
They rallied after the High Court on Wednesday dismissed a case brought by the CFMEU looking to overturn the federal government's decision to place the union's construction division into administration.
The federal government intervened in August 2024, following claims of bikie and organised crime figures infiltrating the scandal-riddled union, in addition to other serious criminal activity.
About 500 protesters gathered in Bowen Hills while more than 200 marched on Queen Street in Brisbane's CBD early on Thursday, causing major traffic delays.
"We know the entire system is against us," former CFMEU national president Jade Ingham told the Bowen Hills gathering, sparking cheers.
"But ... they underestimate our resolve, they underestimate how prepared we are to take this fight on all the way until we win ... mark my words we will win this fight."
Former CFMEU officials had challenged the government's legislation that removed the union's leadership and placed it under the control of administrator Mark Irving KC.
Mr Irving reportedly told CFMEU members to return to work amid speculation protests may last days.
"The High Court decision is final," he told The Courier-Mail.
"I have advised staff and members that any action this morning is likely to be unlawful industrial action, and I have directed them to return to work.
"It is time for all members, delegates and staff to work together to return the union to membership control."
