Unions representing 450 workers at BHP’s Port Hedland iron ore hub are threatening industrial action. Operations at the Western Australian site could halt as early as late June. The Electrical Trades Union (ETU) and other groups cite stalled negotiations over pay and conditions.
BHP estimates a potential strike could cost $126 million in daily lost exports. This figure represents approximately A$120 million for each day of disruption. Port Hedland ranks among the world’s largest iron ore loading ports.
Union members voted for protected industrial action, including work stoppages from 15 minutes to 48 hours. BHP has activated contingency plans to maintain safe operations.