Australia: Maritime workers' strike at multiple ports nationwide extended through at least Nov. 24 /update 2

Workers affiliated with the Maritime Union of Australia announced the extension of an ongoing strike at DP World terminals nationwide, including at the ports of Brisbane, Fremantle, Melbourne, and Sydney, through at least Nov. 24. Participants are demanding better pay and working conditions. Bans on loading and unloading trucks and trains are scheduled at all four ports on various days; a full-day work stoppage will also take place in Sydney Nov. 17. Related rolling work stoppages have occurred since early October, with the latest action causing delays of at least a few weeks. Additional extensions are likely through the end of November; organizers may call off the action if negotiations begin and/or succeed.

Further goods transport delays are likely, potentially exacerbating supply chain disruptions. Residual disruptions to freight services are possible even after the strike ends. Maritime workers may also hold peaceful protests, mainly outside DP World terminals and offices. Demonstrations could involve dozens to hundreds of people and may lead to localized transport disruptions. A heightened security presence is possible around any gatherings that materialize.