A FEDERAL Court has backed DP World’s plan to introduce new crane‑automation technology at Fremantle.
It marks a significant step forward in the stevedore’s national modernisation program and deals a blow to union efforts to halt the rollout.
The ruling, handed down in a case involving DP World and the Construction, Forestry and Maritime Employees Union (CFMEU), confirms the company’s right to proceed with automation‑related changes across its Australian terminals.
While the matter was heard in the context of national enterprise‑agreement provisions, the decision applies directly to Fremantle, where the Maritime Union of Australia has been resisting the introduction of AI‑enabled crane systems.
The court found DP World’s proposed technology changes were permissible under the existing industrial framework, rejecting union arguments that the automation program breached consultation or job‑security clauses.
The decision effectively clears the way for DP World to continue implementing remote‑operation and advanced crane‑control systems at Fremantle, part of a broader digital upgrade that includes AI‑driven scheduling tools and integrated terminal‑management platforms.
The ruling arrives amid heightened national tension over automation, with the union warning that new technologies could threaten hundreds of jobs and recently calling for a 28‑hour working week as compensation for future workforce reductions.
DP World has argued the upgrades are essential to improving safety, consistency and competitiveness across its terminals, and that automation will be phased in alongside retraining and redeployment opportunities.
Industry observers say the Fremantle decision is likely to influence negotiations at other DP World terminals, where automation plans have been contested for more than a year.
It also strengthens the company’s position as it continues rolling out digital systems such as its Digital Vessel Exchange platform and remote‑crane operation capabilities.
DP World has not yet issued a public statement on the ruling, and the MUA is expected to consider its options following the decision.
No operational changes have been announced for Fremantle, but the judgment provides the clearest indication yet that the stevedore intends to press ahead with its technology program.