Ramping union activity in the nation’s economic engine room – the Pilbara’s mining industry – continues to threaten productivity, CCIWA has warned.
“We have heard from several different mining companies that union officials are using the new laws to visit sites in the Pilbara more frequently,” he said.
“Managing these additional visits is a direct hit to productivity onsite, at a time when Australia should be doing all it can to boost productivity across the economy.
“The only problem these laws aim to fix is the problem of declining union membership, which across the mining and resources sector is at an all-time low.”
Since the laws came into effect in 2024 – which expanded workplace delegates’ rights and protections – CCIWA has seen a flurry of union activity across industries and regions, including union officials requesting to enter workplaces, industrial disputes, and pushing for greater involvement in managerial decision making and business practices.
In the mining sector, CCIWA-managed right of entry (ROE) applications more than doubled from 358 in 2023 to 832 in 2024. They have remained high since, with 844 ROE applications made in 2025 and 168 so far thisyear.
Productivity concerns in key economic region
Kiely said productivity in WA’s mining sector was critical to maintaining Australia’s broader economic strength.
“Australia’s mining industry delivers safe, well-paid jobs that support the economic prosperity we all enjoy both here in WA and across the nation,” he said.
“The Pilbara has operated without significant union interference for decades.
“By opening the door to unions in the region, the Federal Government runs the risk of undermining productivity in our nation’s most economically vital region.”
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If you require any assistance on matters such as this, contact CCIWA’s Construction and Mining IR Services team via [email protected].
