DP World and Maritime Union Reach In-Principal Agreement Ending Industrial Action

DP WORLD Australia Pty Ltd and the Maritime Union of Australia were able to come to a mutually agreeable resolution at the Fair Work Commission, effectively concluding months of industrial action.

The parties announced the negotiated agreement on Friday following three days of deliberations at the FWC. The deal remains subject to ratification by DP WORLD employees who are MUA members. However, according to union leadership, covered workers have expressed enthusiasm toward returning to their duties and delivering industry-leading performance, as they strive to do consistently.

The union had been engaged in strike activity at DP WORLD terminal operations nationwide since October 2023, after earlier negotiations toward a renewed collective agreement reached an impasse. The new four-year agreement is understood to provide for fair remuneration, strong health and safety protections, adequate rest periods to prevent fatigue, and employment stability allowing a proper work-life balance. It replaces the previous arrangement which expired in September 2023.

As Adrian Evans, an MUA representative, commented, "The diligent efforts of the past fortnight have demonstrated that an equitable resolution can be attained swiftly when all parties participate constructively." He further noted, "We attempted initiating discussions as early as last March to facilitate concluding a new agreement seamlessly in advance of the prior term ending, so as to avoid any disruption." 

Evans expressed satisfaction that negotiations have now come to a conclusion. He underscored the physically demanding nature of duties performed by dockworkers on a 24/7 basis in all weather conditions, reinforcing they deserve recognition among the most industrious and output-driven labor forces across Australia.

A DP WORLD Oceania spokesperson indicated the pact provides much needed certainty for shipping lines and logistics firms, enabling stabilized operations going forward. As Nicolaj Noes stated, "This underscores our commitment to the wellbeing and interests of employees while allowing consistent service for customers." Noes added, "We can now refocus on rebuilding supply chain resiliency and partnering with our people to regain stakeholder confidence as we support economic recovery."