BHP braces for strike after WA workers back industrial action

Unionized maintenance workers at BHP's port operations in Western Australia's Pilbara region have voted overwhelmingly to strike, signaling a potential major industrial dispute in the mining sector. The Australian Manufacturing Workers Union (AMWU) reported that 90 percent of its members supported the proposed work stoppages.

Results from a ballot by the Electrical Trades Union (ETU) are also expected, and if their members vote for action, stoppages involving approximately 450 workers could commence as early as next week. Staff are required to give five days' notice before any industrial action at Port Hedland, Australia's largest bulk export port.

The ballots allowed for unlimited stoppages ranging from 30 minutes to 24 hours. This action follows months of stalled negotiations between the unions and BHP over a new employment agreement. Steve McCartney, AMWU State Secretary, stated that the vote reflects worker frustration, demanding progress and a fair agreement after seven months of negotiations.

A BHP spokesperson affirmed the company's commitment to maintaining industry-leading pay and conditions. They also indicated that robust contingency plans are in place to ensure safe and reliable operations in the event of disruptions. The potential financial impact of any stoppage is substantial, with estimates suggesting losses of $110 million to $126 million per day for BHP and $6.85 million daily in royalties for the Western Australian government.

BHP, industry groups, and the opposition have attributed the return of unionized labor actions to changes in industrial relations laws by the Albanese Government. However, Resources Minister Madeline King noted that BHP has successfully negotiated agreements with other workforces and that workers have a legal right to take protected industrial action.

“

Workers shouldn't have to wait seven months for genuine progress at the bargaining table. Members have had enough. They are demanding to be heard and they are demanding a fair agreement.