20 Dec 2024 | 06:30 AM UTC
Australia: Unionized port workers to continue strikes at Adelaide, Brisbane, Darwin, Gladstone, Melbourne and Port Kembla Dec. 23-Jan. 12 /update 3
Workers to continue strikes at multiple ports across Australia Dec. 23-Jan. 12. Disruptions likely.
Unionized port workers are set to continue strikes at the ports of Adelaide, Brisbane, Darwin, Gladstone, Melbourne, and Port Kembla in Wollongong Dec. 23-Jan. 12. The work stoppages are planned amid an ongoing dispute between the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) and Qube Ports over contract negotiations. Over 100 union members went on a 24-hour strike Dec. 16 at 10 ports. Upcoming industrial actions will only affect ports handling bulk goods, including grains, steel, and machinery. Union leaders have confirmed the following strike plans:
Adelaide: Workers will stage one-hour daily stoppages at 03:30, 11:30, and 19:30 from Dec. 26.
Brisbane: Workers will cease work Dec. 23-27 alongside additional short work stoppages Dec. 20-Jan. 22.
Darwin: Workers will stop work 07:00 Dec. 23-15:00 Dec. 24.
Gladstone: Specific strike plans are unavailable.
Port Kembla, Wollongong: Workers have announced 13 rolling work stoppages planned between Dec. 20 - Jan. 3.
Melbourne: Workers will undertake one-hour stoppages between 00:30 Dec. 20 and 23:00 Dec. 26.
Additionally, all participating port workers plan to stage eight-hour stoppages when vessels berth.
If the MUA prolongs or expands the scope of the strike, cargo handling delays will likely prompt supply chain disruptions through January. Strike supporters may hold protests outside offices within the port.
Confirm deliveries and plan for potential shipping delays through the duration of the work stoppage. Consider alternative shipping methods for time-sensitive cargo.
