Australia: Port workers plan strikes in Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, and Melbourne throughout October

Event

Members of the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) plan to continue a series of rolling work stoppages at port facilities in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Fremantle (Perth) as of Oct. 5. MUA leaders say the strikes, which are scheduled to continue intermittently throughout October, are in response to recent moves by port operators to cut benefits for workers.

The labor actions will likely disrupt dock and port services, including bulk and conventional cargo handling, at affected ports, especially Port Melbourne. The strikes may also prompt increased demand at alternative facilities. Supply chain disruptions are likely.

Strike participants may stage demonstrations near port facilities as the industrial actions continue. Authorities will likely increase security near protest venues as a precaution. Localized transport disruptions could occur near any demonstrations that occur.

Advice

Confirm maritime shipments and port-handling operations at affected facilities. Consider alternative shipping methods for critical freights. Avoid all protests as a precaution. Allow additional time to reach destinations near any rally venues.