BHP has confirmed job cuts across its Western Australian iron ore operations, sparking strong criticism from unions and the state government.
It is understood approximately 300 roles will be made redundant across the miner’s South Flank, Mining Area C, Jimblebar, and Newman operations in the Pilbara region, according to a ABC News report.
A BHP spokesperson confirmed the operational changes were designed to ensure the business continues to make a significant contribution to the regional and state economy, adding that the company would seek to redeploy affected employees into alternative roles across the business where possible. The spokesperson did not specify how many jobs would be cut.
Minister for the Pilbara Amber-Jade Sanderson expressed disappointment over the announcement, urging the mining titan to prioritise internal redeployment to retain critical industry skills.
“We strongly urge BHP to redeploy these workers, these are highly needed skills across the sector and across our economy,” Sanderson said.
“We will be working as a government to make sure that we have the jobs and skills centres ready to support these workers.”
The announcement drew sharp condemnation from the Electrical Trades Union (ETU) and the Western Mine Workers Alliance (WMWA).
ETU WA State Secretary Adam Woodage labelled the redundancies a “senseless attack” and claimed the company had failed to properly consult workers prior to media reports.
“This is another sad reflection of a once-great Australian mining company that has lost its way and forgotten its values,” Woodage said.
However, BHP refuted allegations of ambushing staff, stating that formal consultation with workers and union leadership commenced on 5 October.
The job losses occur against a backdrop of escalating industrial friction between BHP and resource unions.
Workers at BHP’s Port Hedland operations recently engaged in protected strike action over pay and working conditions, with unions taking the dispute to the Fair Work Commission.
Furthermore, BHP electricians near Newman have lodged an application for supported bargaining to address ongoing labour concerns.
