BHP Port Hedland Workers Strike Over Wage Dispute

Approximately 150 workers at BHP Group's Port Hedland bulk iron ore export terminal in Western Australia conducted a two-day strike on August 8 and 9, 2026. This marked the first major industrial action at the hub since 2000. The action, coordinated by the Combined BHP Ports Unions, consisted of a 24-hour ship-loading ban on Saturday followed by a 24-hour total work stoppage on Sunday. Simultaneously, high-voltage workers near Newman engaged in a separate 12-hour strike.

The dispute stems from a protracted wage and conditions conflict that began in October 2025. Unions, including the Electrical Trades Union and the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union, claim BHP has engaged in "deliberate stonewalling" and failed to negotiate in good faith. While BHP offered a 16% pay increase over four years, union leadership argued the offer was insufficient given the company's $15 billion annual profit.

BHP reported that ship loading continued during the action due to autonomous loaders and existing plans to maintain operations. The company also rejected union allegations of intimidation regarding pay deductions, stating it is not required to pay for work subject to industrial bans. Financial estimates suggest a 24-hour stoppage could cost the company $120 million in revenue and the Western Australian government $6.85 million in royalties.

Western Australia Deputy Premier Rita Saffioti and Industrial Relations Minister Simone McGurk both urged the parties to reach an agreement to protect the regional economy. The parties are scheduled to meet again on August 18 under the oversight of the Fair Work Commission.