Workers at Glencore’s Townsville copper refinery have walked off the job at 8am, launching protected industrial action after nearly a year of stalled wage talks.
The AWU says Glencore’s wage offer fails to keep up with the rising cost of living, arguing some workers earn up to 15 per cent less than staff at neighbouring sites. The union also points to last year’s major government bailout, saying workers deserve a fairer deal.
Glencore rejects the claims, telling News Corp it’s disappointed by the strike and maintains it has already offered a competitive four‑year pay deal while the refinery continues to operate at a loss.
The union says today’s walk‑off sends a clear message that members won’t accept being short‑changed.
AWU Northern District Secretary Jim Wilson says Glencore should be ashamed of the way they’ve treated their workforce.
“We have a situation right now where Glencore is paying workers almost 15% less than neighbouring sites like Sun Metals for the same work. It’s simply unacceptable.”
“The Townsville community is sick of billionaires profiting from our town and leaving nothing but the crumbs for workers and their families,” he said.
