BHP Port Hedland Workers Plan Rolling Strikes in August

Unionized workers at the Port Hedland bulk iron ore export terminal in Western Australia will launch a series of rolling strikes on August 8 and 9. The industrial action, organized by a coalition including the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union, the Electrical Trades Union of Australia, and the Western Mine Workers Alliance, involves a 24-hour ship-loading ban on August 8 and a 24-hour work stoppage starting at 5:30 a.m. on August 9. Additionally, high voltage and power workers will execute a separate 12-hour stoppage on August 9.

BHP has described the planned action as disappointing and expressed frustration over a lack of genuine engagement from the unions during bargaining meetings. In contrast, union leaders allege that the company has failed to negotiate in good faith since October 2025, citing glacial progress in the dispute over pay and conditions.

This action follows an eight-hour walk-off in July that cost the company $50 million in revenue and the state $6.8 million in royalties. Analysts suggest the upcoming 24-hour stoppage could cost BHP $120 million in lost revenue and the Western Australian government $6.85 million in royalties. BHP has requested the Fair Work Commission to oversee a negotiated outcome for the dispute.