48‑hour strike action at Port Hedland could cost BHP $100 million and WA $7 million royalties, industry Shop. Unionised workers have begun 24‑hour(commands)

Port Hedland is the world’s largest bulk export port, handling 580 million tonnes of commodities last year and a $150 billion Pilbara trade. 1,200 workers run 19 berths, 450 of whom work for BHP and are unionised.

The dispute involves the Electrical Trades Union, the Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union and the Western Mine Workers' Alliance. Negotiations have been ongoing since October, with an 11‑meeting Fair Work Commission process yet to deliver an agreement.

BHP says contingency plans will limit disruption, while unions warn that further industrial action will only delay a fair deal. A next meeting is set for August 18 with an updated proposal.