Industrial action planned amid wage negotiations
TOWNSVILLE — Glencore is facing a significant pay dispute as members of the Australian Workers Union (AWU) at its Townsville Refinery prepare to undertake protected industrial action starting tomorrow. The workers plan to implement partial work bans as part of their ongoing campaign for a wage increase, according to the AWU.
The dispute escalated after Glencore informed workers that they would not be compensated if they participate in the partial bans, regardless of other duties performed. Negotiations have been ongoing since March 25 last year, but the company has yet to offer a wage increase that aligns with the rising cost of living, AWU Queensland Branch Secretary Stacey Schinnerl stated.
Background and industry context
Schinnerl criticised Glencore’s stance, saying, “It is an absolute disgrace that Glencore are now threatening workers with no pay, even if they turn up to work tomorrow.” The AWU alleges that Glencore, a multinational corporation, has benefited significantly from the labour of its workforce, yet remains unwilling to meet their demands for fair compensation. The union remains resolute, with Schinnerl adding, “Our message to Glencore is simple. We aren’t going anywhere. The AWU and our members will keep fighting every day until this company stumps up and provides their workers a decent wage increase that keeps up with cost of living.”
This development comes at a time when the mining sector is witnessing increased industrial action across Australia, as workers push for pay that reflects inflation and increased living expenses. The call for fair wages echoes across the industry, with employees emphasizing that their contributions are vital to the profitability of these large corporations. As the negotiations continue, both sides are being watched closely by industry analysts and the public, as this dispute could set a precedent for future wage negotiations in the mining sector.
Source: newshub.medianet.com.au
Last updated: 1 April 2026, 10:29 am
