Key facts
- BHP iron ore workers at Port Hedland will strike for eight hours on July 16.
- The strike follows six months of unsuccessful negotiations for a new labor agreement.
- The action is expected to disrupt A$120 million ($83.16 million) in daily iron ore revenue.
- Workers across port operations and maintenance will participate.
- A recent labor agreement at other BHP operations included a 16% pay hike over four years.
Workers at BHP's Port Hedland operations in Western Australia have notified the company of an eight-hour work stoppage scheduled for July 16. This action comes after six months of negotiations failed to yield an agreement on a four-year labor deal. The strike is anticipated to disrupt approximately A$120 million ($83.16 million) in daily iron ore revenue.
The Combined Ports Unions, representing the port operations and maintenance workforce, confirmed that employees will participate in the stoppage. Adam Woodage, Secretary of the Electrical Trades Union WA, expressed hope that the action would encourage BHP management and shareholders to negotiate fairly.
This planned strike follows a recent vote by workers at BHP's South Flank and Mining Area C iron ore operations to approve a new labor agreement. Unions are currently pursuing significant wage deals and broader strike capabilities, bolstered by legislation enacted in 2022. The recently approved agreement at South Flank includes a 16% pay increase over four years, enhanced site allowances, and a new payment system for flight delays.
Port Hedland is a critical export hub, also utilized by Fortescue and Hancock, with daily iron ore shipments valued at around $150 million.