In the midst of the ongoing impasse at Australian Ports, DP World has raised a red flag, urging the Albanese Government to implement earlier arbitration rights for stevedores. The call comes as a strategic move to avert potential economic fallout, exemplified by the staggering $1.3 billion estimated cost incurred due to the continuous industrial action led by the wharfies’ union.
Speaking at a Senate hearing on Monday, Blake Tierney, the head of corporate affairs at DP World, expressed concerns over the government’s proposed intractable bargaining law embedded in its Closing Loopholes Bill. Tierney argued that the proposed legislation is “inconsistent with the give-and-take process of bargaining” and fails to acknowledge the necessity for employers to adapt terms and conditions that may no longer be relevant or aligned with current operational needs.
The bill, a collaborative effort between the Labor party and the Greens, is slated for debate next month. If passed, it will safeguard workers, preventing a reduction in their existing conditions if their claims undergo unilateral arbitration after nine months of negotiations.
DP World, however, is advocating for the removal of this provision from the bill. The company asserts that such a safeguard may inadvertently incentivize prolonged disputes, emphasizing that essential services like stevedoring must be shielded from protracted bargaining situations.
In addition to opposing the proposed safeguard, DP World is pushing for earlier access to unilateral arbitration. Waiting for nine months before seeking assistance from the Fair Work Commission could potentially lead to an extension of the current industrial action until June. The urgency of resolving this impasse is underscored by the significant economic ramifications and the ripple effect it has on the broader maritime, breakbulk, project freight, cargo, and logistics sectors.
As DP World brings attention to these concerns, the Albanese Government faces mounting pressure to address the complexities of the situation promptly. The maritime industry is closely watching the developments, recognizing the need for a balanced approach that safeguards the interests of both workers and employers.
Source: PASA
