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Posted by Allen Newton
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9 June, 2026
INDUSTRIAL action by the Electrical Trades Union (ETU) at BHP’s iron‑ore export operations at Port Hedland could cost millions of dollars per day.
The ETU has confirmed its members at BHP’s Port Hedland operations have endorsed a suite of industrial measures, including overtime bans, permit and switching-program bans, and stoppages of up to 48 hours.
The ballot was authorised by the Fair Work Commission, giving workers the legal right to take action with the required notice.
Electrical workers covered by the ballot support the power and automation systems that underpin BHP’s stockyard management and ship‑loading operations at Port Hedland.
Even short stoppages could affect vessel schedules, with the port handling more than 280 million tonnes of BHP iron ore annually.
Industry sources note that while BHP has contingency plans, electrical labour is not easily substituted due to licensing and site‑specific competency requirements.
A BHP spokesperson said the company remained committed to “constructive, good‑faith bargaining” and would continue working toward an agreement.
“We respect the protected action ballot process and are focused on reaching an outcome that supports our people and maintains safe, reliable operations,” the spokesperson said. “We have plans in place to manage any potential disruption.”
The prospect of industrial disruption comes after electrical workers voted in favour of protected industrial action, escalating a bargaining dispute that has been running for several months.
ETU WA state secretary Adam Woodage said the result reflected “deep frustration” among electrical workers who maintain critical high‑voltage and conveyor systems across BHP’s Pilbara supply chain.
“These workers keep the export system running, and they want a fair agreement that reflects the skills and responsibility their roles carry,” Mr Woodage said. “If BHP continues to stall, members are prepared to escalate.”
The union has formally notified BHP of the outcome, signalling that industrial action could begin with five days’ notice.
The ETU has not yet issued a notice of action, but the union has indicated that stoppages could occur as early as late June if negotiations do not progress.
The dispute adds to a broader pattern of industrial assertiveness across the Pilbara, with unions increasingly testing bargaining leverage at major iron‑ore operations.
