BHP workers at one of Australia’s most crucial ports are going on strike
Union members at Australia’s largest bulk export port have voted to go on strike following weeks of fears about potential industrial action and its impact on the country’s economy.
The Australian Manufacturing Workers Union (AMWU) has confirmed that 90 per cent of its members at BHP’s Pilbara port operations support the work stoppage proposal, with strike action expected to take place soon.
The WA Electrical Trades Union also confirmed the majority of its members supported strike action.
The action follows months of unsuccessful talks between workers and BHP representatives over a new employment contract.
The strike is expected to affect the Port of Hedland’s dock maintenance workforce next week as the union must notify the company of its intentions.
It would be the first strike in the Pilbara in decades and had been ringing alarms for those expecting industrial action in the mining sector since March.
ETU WA secretary Adam Woodage said BHP had been “building a stonewall for six months”.
“We want to sit down and get a fair, transparent and workable deal. We have been trying to negotiate a solution for over six months, but BHP’s obstructionist attitude means we have no one to negotiate with.
“This company is not the corporate citizen it used to be.
“My message to BHP is that we all benefit from a safe, fair and productive industry – company, workers, state and nation.”
BHP has been contacted for comment.
Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA chief executive Will Goldsby said the workers’ decision should “alarm the nation”.
“The Pilbara is Australia’s economic engine room. Strike action in our iron ore sector will cause serious economic and reputational damage,” he said.
“The Pilbara has operated without interference for decades, providing safe and well-paid jobs. Changes to industrial relations two years ago have led to this predictable outcome.”
“At a time when global volatility is roiling our economy and productivity is declining, the federal government must protect one of Australia’s most vital economic assets.”
The chamber had previously praised the recently distributed federal budget for opting not to impose a gas tax and leaving many policy settings for miners the same.
