BHP Workers Begin Eight-Hour Strike at Port Hedland Port

Unionised staff at BHP's operations in Port Hedland walked off the job at 2pm for an eight-hour strike, halting work at Australia's largest bulk export port. Family members and union supporters gathered outside the gates before the stoppage began. A picket line was set up with food, pickleball, and face painting for children.

The combined ports unions have been in talks with BHP for months. Last week the company asked the Fair Work Commission to assist in reaching an agreement. A BHP spokesperson said the strike was disappointing and that contingency plans were in place.

The spokesperson added that the company remained committed to bargaining in good faith and viewed the commission's involvement as the most constructive path forward.

BHP reported record quarterly production on the same day. The Electrical Trades Union state secretary said the results reflected the contribution of the skilled workforce at the site and stated the union remained ready to negotiate. Western Australia's Chamber of Minerals and Energy said the action placed recent investment and production gains at risk.

The chamber's chief executive said international customers and investors were watching the dispute.