Electrical Trades Union hopeful jobs will remain for hundreds of workers as Inpex scraps existing contracts

A union representing about 350 workers whose jobs are in limbo at Inpex’s Middle Arm facility says it is ‘hopeful’ jobs will remain for those who want them.

The ETU is in discussions with Inpex after the oil giant announced about 350 workers would be made redundant at the onshore Middle Arm facility. Picture: Glenn Campbell

A union representing about 350 employees losing their jobs with a contractor at Inpex’s Middle Arm LNG processing plant says it is in discussions with the oil giant about the workforce’s future.

On Wednesday it was announced Trace JV’s maintenance contract at Inpex’s onshore facility would come to an end on November 22, making about 250 blue collar and 100 white collar workers redundant.

ETU Territory organiser David Hayes.

The Electrical Trades Union said they understood the scope of work at the facility would not change and it was hopeful the incoming contractor Monadelphous would have jobs for current employees looking to stay on.

“We’re looking forward to positive discussions with Monadelphous and Inpex in relation to the future employment of the current workforce,” NT organiser David Hayes said.

“We’re hopeful the workforce requirements will reflect the workforce that wants to remain.

“Everyone has the opportunity to reapply and I know a number already have … the same amount of work needs to be done and here’s a highly skilled workforce that knows the job.

“We urge Inpex to ensure that jobs remain in the Territory related to the onshore facility.”

Trace JV had impromptu drinks at 11am after everyone lost the jobs they had. The all now have to re-apply for the roles they have been holding. Only difference? Lower wages, anger and annoyance temps, as well as, most importantly, attitudes.
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Mr Hayes said the biggest change would be in rostering.

Current Trace rosters mostly had workers doing a fortnight on/fortnight off, five days on/five days off, or seven days on/four days off.

Monadelphous, which already holds the maintenance contracts for Inpex’s two offshore Ichthys facilities, has indicated running Monday to Friday rosters on a different enterprise agreement.

“We’ll need to discuss the proposed roster arrangements to ensure a work-life balance can be maintained for employees working on this high risk facility,” Mr Hayes said.

He acknowledged that the period of uncertainty could be tough for those affected.

“In these times it’s important for everyone to look out for each other – if you get worried about things reach out to your mates or your union.”