Australia: Port worker strikes ongoing in Brisbane and Perth as of Oct. 15 /update 1

Event

Members of the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) continue to strike at port facilities in Brisbane and Fremantle (Perth) as of Oct. 15. Organizers canceled labor actions at the Port of Melbourne after some workers tested positive for COVID-19. Sydney port workers had held a 48-hour strike early October but have not announced any further actions. Port workers are continuing the strike intermittently in Perth and Brisbane throughout October. Participants are denouncing recent actions by port operators to cut benefits for workers.

The labor actions will likely disrupt dock and port services at affected ports, including bulk and conventional cargo handling. 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.