Australia: Train drivers' strike planned at mining facilities in Pilbara Region, Western Australia, Feb. 16

Train drivers at BHP's ore mining operations in Pilbara Region, Western Australia, plan to strike Feb. 16 to call for an improved employment agreement. Participants will suspend train services between Port Hedland and other mining sites in Pilbara Region for 24 hours. Hundreds of drivers may join the action, which could potentially disrupt ore production across BHP facilities in Western Australia, including Jimblebar, Newman, South Flank, and Yandi. Drivers also intend to operate trains at reduced speeds and suspend train services transporting fuel and other goods Feb. 17-24. Additional work stoppages are possible over the coming weeks if the drivers' demands are not met.

Although strike participants have not announced specific protest plans, related gatherings are possible at the main entrances of mining sites or BHP offices. Security forces could deploy to monitor any protests that materialize. While any related gatherings will likely pass peacefully, minor scuffles between protesters and security personnel cannot be ruled out. Localized transport disruptions are possible near well-attended demonstrations.