Approximately 150 workers joined a strike at BHP's Port Hedland operations in Western Australia on August 9. This expansion marks the second day of a planned two-day stoppage. The industrial action represents the first major strike at the world’s largest iron ore export hub in approximately 25 years.
The protest began with a 24-hour ship-loading ban on August 8. A full work stoppage followed on August 9. BHP reported that vessel loading continued despite the action.
BHP exports roughly $80 million of iron ore daily from the facility. The dispute involves negotiations for a new four-year workplace agreement. Formal talks between the parties are scheduled to resume on August 18.