BHP Port Hedland strike widens as more workers join stoppage
Union workers at BHP's Port Hedland operations have expanded a two-day strike, with around 150 workers now participating.
Industrial action at BHP's Port Hedland iron ore export hub in Western Australia has intensified, with more workers joining the strike on its second day. A union spokesperson confirmed that approximately 100 additional workers downed tools at 5:30 a.m. local time on Sunday, bringing the total number of participants to around 150.
The 24-hour stoppage on Sunday follows a similar ship-loading halt on Saturday, marking the first major industrial action at the facility in 25 years. The strike is being organized by the Combined BHP Ports Unions, which represents a portion of the more than 800 workers employed at the port.
BHP, which ships an estimated $80 million worth of iron ore daily through Port Hedland, has not yet commented on the operational impact of the strike. On Saturday, the company stated that vessel loading continued as scheduled, with departures subject to standard port planning and tidal conditions.
The unions have scheduled to resume negotiations with BHP on August 18, seeking a four-year bargaining agreement. The strike proceeds despite reported progress in talks earlier this week.
The industrial action is not expected to affect other miners using the port, including Fortescue and Hancock Prospecting. Port Hedland handles approximately 75% of iron ore exports from Western Australia's Pilbara region.