A DISPUTE between DP World and the Maritime Union of Australia over new crane technology at Fremantle has escalated to the Federal Court, where the stevedore is defending its plan to introduce automated and AI‑enabled systems at the container terminal.
DP World has taken the Construction Forestry and Maritime Employees Union (CFMEU/MUA) to the Federal Court, with a two‑day hearing underway in Perth. The union has recently demanded a 28‑hour week with no loss of pay, arguing the company’s automation program — including the rollout of new quay crane technology — will reduce labour hours and displace wharfies.
During the hearing, lawyers questioned DP World operations general manager Sean Jeffries and DP World Oceania APAC training manager Sean Pitt.
CFMEU’s barrister Philip Boncardo suggested the project’s aim was to decrease labour costs by reducing the need for on‑site crane operators.
Mr Jeffries rejected the claim, telling the court the project was designed to expand DP World’s service offerings, not cut jobs. He said “Project quay crane does not include people losing their jobs”, and insisted the operator would remain “100% in control” of the crane under the new system.
The union argued the technology could allow DP World to relocate crane operators interstate or overseas, removing physical roles from Fremantle. DP World told the court it had no plan to offshore or relocate crane drivers.
The case highlights growing national tensions over automation in Australian container terminals, with unions warning of job losses and stevedores arguing modernisation is essential for productivity, safety and competitiveness.
DP World has invested heavily in technology upgrades across its Australian terminals in recent years, including Fremantle’s freight rail link and digital optimisation systems.
The Federal Court hearing continues.