All port terminals covered and stevedore looks to support fellow companies
Some major pieces in the waterfront peach jigsaw have fallen into place with stevedore DP World Australia (DPWA) and the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) finalising all four enterpriseagreements for Australia.
The deals conclude a two-and-a-half-year negotiation process for replacement agreements.
For the roiled container logistics sector, it comes as progress away from industrial action for a while, at DPWA’s terminals at least.
“All agreements have now been signed off by employees at our Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney and Fremantle terminals,” DPWA chief operating officer, terminals Andrew Adam states in a customer update.
“The agreed workplace terms and conditions are ready to come into effect and will remain in place until the end of 2023.”
Read how things were looking less rosy in the midst of the industrial action, here
Adam highlights the positives of DPWA’s handling of the industrial dispute.
“In addition to finalising agreements, we are proud that we have been able to provide you with a reliable service,” he says.
“Over the past five months, DP World Australia has enjoyed zero industrial action at our east-coast terminals.
“This stability has enabled the resumption of pre- bargaining levels of productivity and reduced congestion in the Australian network.
“All our terminals are operating normally and without berthing delays. We will continue to accept subcontracts, ad hoc callers, and above contract exchanges which includes empty container repositioning.
“We appreciate this is important given the extensive delays being experienced by shipping lines in overseas ports.
“We are very proud of the agreements we have delivered.
“They provide a strong and stable platform to encourage the growth of our business, secure fair terms for our employees, and support productivity improvements for customers such as yourself.
“We thank you for the support you have provided throughout the negotiation process.
“With enterprise agreements finalised we are ready to strengthen our focus towards improving our operations, enabling trade flow, and partnering with you to produce world-class trade solutions for your business.”