Australia: Unionized workers striking at petrochemical plant in Altona, Victoria, as of Oct. 7

Event

Workers at a Qenos petrochemical plant continue to strike in the Altona area of Greater Melbourne as of Oct. 7 amid a bargaining dispute. Workers launched the strike Oct. 3, but Qenos later ordered a lockout, shutting down production at one of its facilities. The owner has sought an order from the Fair Work Commission to end the action, but it is unclear if the workers will adhere to official orders. Employees continue to picket at the site; while unlikely, localized transport disruptions cannot be ruled out near the affected plant.

Qenos is the largest plastics producer in Australia, and supply chain disruptions are possible if workers prolong the labor action. While not imminent, natural gas provider Esso has warned that it may curtail production due to reduced demand from the plant, and the government has warned that a protracted action could impact the supply of natural gas in the area.

Advice

Allow extra time to reach destinations if operating in Altona due to the potential for localized transport disruptions. Plan for possible supply chain disruptions in the event of a prolonged labor action.