The Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia (CME) has warned of dire consequences if the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) takes industrial action in Port Hedland.
“Any disruption to the port’s export operations will have an immediate and negative impact to iron ore producers and both the state and national economies,” said CME Chief Executive Reg Howard-Smith.
“Port Hedland is the largest bulk export port in the world. Its contribution to our economy is far too valuable to risk in any industrial negotiations,” said Mr Howard-Smith.
Industry is wary the costly and negative flow-on impacts for other ports associated with the MUA’s claim.
“Another significant consequence would be the damage to Western Australia’s international reputation as a safe investment destination and a reliable supplier of vital commodities such as iron ore,” said Mr Howard-Smith
“Any retreat to the bad old days of industrial chaos in the Pilbara will mean resources projects get developed elsewhere, costing jobs locally,” said Mr Howard-Smith.
The Western Australian resources sector continues to be focused on capital and labour productivity, particularly given volatile market dynamics. To that end CME have been urging Federal and State Governments to focus on policy initiatives which address the rising cost of doing business here in Western Australia.
“Exorbitant pay claims, which deliver no increase in productivity have no place in the modern and world-class Western Australian resources sector,” said Mr Howard-Smith.
The State Budget released earlier this month again highlighted the economic importance of the resources sector, with more than 22 per cent of the State Government’s revenue coming from mining royalties alone.
“The benefits of the resources sector to the WA community are pretty clear. However we need to recognise and address the cost challenges faced by industry, if we are to continue to deliver ongoing prosperity to the community,” said Mr Howard-Smith.
