BHP Queensland coal miners have voted overwhelmingly in favour of taking strong action to pursue job security protections in the BMA Central Enterprise Agreement, the biggest agreement in the Queensland coalfields.
Following a ballot of eligible voters:
90% supported stoppages of 1-6 hours
81% supported shift-length stoppages
94% supported bans on non-rostered overtime
90% supported bans on training and assessing
95% supported bans on hot-seating during shift changeovers
93% supported bans on performing step-up supervisor duties
93% supported action regarding time and location of crib (meal breaks)
Mining and Energy Union Queensland District President Stephen Smyth said:
“Many thanks to our members for making their voices heard and showing their strong commitment to taking action in support of current and future permanent jobs in our industry.
“Our members at Saraji, Peak Downs, Blackwater and Goonyella Riverside have a proud history of fighting for conditions over many decades.
“The next step will be to engage with members and develop an effective plan for protected industrial action to achieve a fairer Enterprise Agreement that recognises the value of job security.
“Today’s ballot result means we have a range of options available and we are confident of strong support from members.”
The union is seeking protections for EA jobs, maintaining a multi-skilled workforce with consistent pay rates and protections from permanent jobs being replaced by Operations Services and other labour hire.
