Original article by Brad Thompson
The Australian – Page: 13 & 17 : 9-Apr-26

There has been a sharp increase in unions’ right-of-entry requests at iron ore mines in the Pilbara since Labor took office federally in 2022. BHP received 844 right-of-entry requests in 2025, and there were 168 in the first 10 weeks of 2026. The issue has come under scrutiny in the wake of BHP’s refusal to allow an Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union organiser to access its Newman mine site via a right-of-access permit. The AMWU contends that the organiser had failed a breathalyser test after using an alcohol-based mouthwash immediately before entering the mine site. However, BHP says its rules on alcohol and drug use are strictly enforced and non-negotiable.

CORPORATES
BHP GROUP LIMITED – ASX BHPAUSTRALIAN MANUFACTURING WORKERS’ UNION