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Posted by David Sexton
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28 Sep, 2026
WATERFRONT workers who are members of the Maritime Union are to rally at Newcastle’s NCIG coal terminal at noon on Tuesday (29 September) as part of their campaign for better wages and conditions.
MUA Newcastle branch secretary Glen Williams said workers had engaged in good faith bargaining, but NCIG had used “every tired excuse available” to “justify a bad offer”.
In contrast, NCIG said it was “disappointed negotiations have reached this point and had genuinely hoped the outstanding matters could be resolved without ongoing industrial action”.
Mr Williams said the union had “tried to land a deal through good faith bargaining but the bosses at NCIG want to provoke further disputation by refusing a good deal on the table and countering with one that they know will be rejected by the workers”.
“We invite all MUA members and community supporters to join this rally and highlight the failure of these managers to engage in a reasonable, fair and sustainable bargaining process that will deliver a good result both sides can be happy with,” he said.
NCIG said it respected the lawful right of employees to participate in protected industrial action and remained committed to constructive discussions with technicians and their representatives to reach “a mutually acceptable agreement”.
It said operations at the terminal continued to be supported by a dedicated group of NCIG staff who have elected to work in different operational roles.
NCIG said these employees had undertaken the required training and competency assessments to ensure they are qualified to perform the roles they are covering safely and effectively.
NCIG chief executive Aaron Johansen said the willingness of employees to step up demonstrated the strength of the organisation and its people.
"Our priority throughout this process has been, and will continue to be, the safety of our people and the continued operation of the terminal,” he said.
“In regard to the MUA’s statement about pay and conditions, NCIG’s technicians are among the highest-paid industrial tradespeople in the Newcastle region, reflecting the value we place on their contribution in delivering exceptional service to our customers.”
The MUA rally is to be held at 12.30pm, NCIG Wharf Facility, Cormorant Road, Kooragang.
