AN INDUSTRIAL dispute at Quantem Coode Island facility, Melbourne, has escalated, with workers going on strike and reports the company has laid off its workforce.
Coode Island is one of Victoria’s biggest bulk liquids ports.
In an emailed statement, MUA organiser Shane Reside said when workers walked off this morning “they were shocked to discover that the company has brought in a replacement workforce to run the terminal”.
Mr Reside said Quantem had previously sought to sack delegates for “simply having the audacity to stand up for their mates”.
MUA Victoria deputy branch secretary David Ball said Quantem Coode Island facility operated with “a very highly skilled, professional workforce”.
“It takes months to train operators to perform basic entry-level duties and literally years before they develop the experience and knowledge to run the full functions of the terminal safely,” Mr Ball said.
In a statement to Daily Cargo News, Quantem said workers at its Melbourne terminal commenced a 24-hour work stoppage from 12.01 am on Wednesday 2 September under protected industrial action.
“This protected industrial action is related to negotiations regarding a new enterprise agreement at the site,” the statement read.
“The terminal remains open and Quantem is implementing its contingency plans to minimise any potential impact on customers.
“Quantem’s ongoing focus remains on providing a safe operating environment at the facility.”
Meanwhile a rally at the terminal earlier on Wednesday saw several Victorian Union leaders, Greens Leader and local MP Ellen Sandell and Upper House MP Tom McIntosh come down to the facility to support the striking workers.
“That we’ve seen such an impassioned turn out from the local community and across the progressive political spectrum tells you everything you need to know about just how egregious the behaviour of this company actually is,” Mr Ball said.