BHP faces union backlash over board pay hike after Pilbara job cuts

BHP’s shareholders voted overwhelmingly to adopt a remuneration report that lifts the group chair’s base pay to US$1,058,200 and board members’ to US$193,000. The vote occurred just after the company announced a restructuring that will cut up to 300 jobs at its Pilbara operations, including South Flank, Mining Area C, Newman and Jimblebar. The Electrical Trade Union, represented by Adam Woodage, denounced the pay rise as a breach of decency, noting that workers on the ground delivered a $15 billion profit while now facing unemployment.

Woodage also pointed out that electricians can earn more in Perth construction and that board directors moved zero tonnes of ore last year. BHP’s spokesperson said the firm regularly reviews safety and productivity and will seek to redeploy staff where possible. The controversy unfolds amid an ongoing pay dispute involving the Combined Ports Unions, which has already triggered protected industrial action in Port Hedland.