30/05/2026
🚨 AMWU FILES FOR PROTECTED INDUSTRIAL ACTION AT BHP PORTS 🚨
While others are telling Pilbara mine workers that BHP's proposed South Flank and Mining Area C Agreement is somehow a step forward, the AMWU is doing what it has always done — fighting hard for mechanical trades workers and organising to build real power.
For months, AMWU members at BHP port operations in Port Hedland have bargained in good faith. They have attended meetings, put forward claims, participated constructively and genuinely tried to reach an agreement that reflects the skills, experience and contribution of the mechanical maintenance workforce.
Other unions in the Pilbara are busy selling workers minimum-rate agreements with no real career progression, weak protections and little certainty for the future. AMWU members at BHP ports are drawing a line in the sand.
The AMWU has now commenced proceedings in the Fair Work Commission seeking a Protected Action Ballot Order.
This is not a step workers take lightly.
Protected industrial action is a lawful right. It exists for a reason. When workers have bargained honestly, reasonably and in good faith, they are entitled to have a meaningful mechanism available to apply pressure when negotiations stall.
Now they are exercising their lawful rights.
The message from Port Hedland maintenance workers is loud and clear:
Enough is enough.
If you're a mechanical tradesperson working for BHP in Port Hedland, South Flank, Mining Area C, Yandi, Jimblebar, Newman, Rail, Ports or anywhere across the Pilbara, now is the time to stand with the union that is actually fighting for mechanical maintenance workers.
Stand and deliver. Join the AMWU.
✊ United.
✊ Determined.
✊ Ready to fight for a fair deal.
