Unions Win Labor Backing for Strikes That Could Cost BHP Over $120 Million Daily at Port Hedland

Federal Resources Minister Madeleine King said workers at BHP's Port Hedland facility deserve every cent they earn because conditions are hard, hot, and involve intense swings away from family. 5 ABC Radio Perth that she hoped a strike would not occur but added there was nothing wrong with unions taking action at the port in Western Australia's Pilbara region.

WA Premier Roger Cook told workers to stand up for their rights and get the best wages and conditions they can.

His comments came after union members voted for protected industrial action at the facility, which handles the nation's busiest bulk exports. Unions have voted in favour of unlimited rolling stoppages ranging from 30 minutes to 24 hours. The Electrical Trades Union and Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union represent 450 workers at the site.

ETU WA secretary Adam Woodage said the union would back members if they wanted to strike for a week. He said BHP wages of $150,000 to $200,000 per year in the Pilbara were not enough and that electricians could stop iron ore exports by shutting off power. BHP stated that union action shutting down the port could cost the company in excess of $120 million per day.

The company said it has strong contingency plans in place to protect people and ensure safe, reliable operations. 85 million per day in royalties. Senior lecturer Caleb Goods at UWA Business School said a shutdown could do as much damage to BHP in less than 13 days as the Shell Prelude strike caused in 76 days.

Woodage said the ETU would not rule out striking before the June 23 bargaining meeting but added it was unlikely. WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti urged both sides to compromise and reach agreements. WA Liberal leader Basil Zempilas said he was concerned about the potential action and criticised the premier's comments.