Newcastle coal terminals block union inspectors from checking crew welfare
Union inspectors were blocked from boarding ships at Newcastle coal terminals to check foreign crew welfare.
The International Transport Workers' Federation and Maritime Union of Australia said inspectors were blocked from boarding the bulk carrier Prolin at Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Group's terminal. Inspectors were also blocked from boarding another vessel at Port Waratah Coal Services on the same day.
NCIG said the ITF did not get approval from the Prolin's captain. Maritime security law needs this approval before visitors can board a ship, NCIG said.
The ITF thinks the Prolin is linked to what it calls a fake union. This union cuts crew wages and working conditions.
The dispute repeats November 2022, when the bulk carrier Costanza was arrested at the same NCIG dock. Allegations included wage theft and denied shore leave.
But Port of Newcastle allowed snap checks of another vessel, the Kibo.
- Prolin and another at PWCS, plus Kibo
- Vessels involved
- NCIG and Port Waratah Coal Services
- Terminal operators
- November 2022 bulk carrier Costanza
- Previous detention
Why it mattersThe standoff shows ongoing tension between port operators and unions. Port operators want security rules to be followed. Unions work to protect vulnerable foreign workers from wage theft and exploitation.
AustraliaAustralia's role in global shipping means conditions aboard coal export ships reflect on the nation's labour standards; union efforts to inspect foreign crews protect both workers and Australian companies' reputations.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 h ago
