Protected Industrial Action is underway at four Central Queensland BHP coal mines (Blackwater, Saraji, Peak Downs and Goonyella Riverside), with bans on overtime and step-up duties in place until further notice.
In addition, Mining and Energy Union members at Peak Downs and Goonyella Riverside will take five-hour stoppages on Friday 4 November from 3-8pm. The stoppages are timed to facilitate attendance at the Moranbah Miners Memorial event.
MEU Queensland District President Stephen Smyth said protected action would be strategic, measured and responsive to BHP’s willingness to address members’ job security concerns.
“With coal prices so high there is constant pressure to maintain and increase production, so we are confident our bans and stoppages will be felt.
“We are continuing our dialogue with BHP to work through members’ concerns about protecting current and future permanent jobs. We will have no hesitation in ramping up our industrial campaign if members feel that progress is not being made.”