Anglo American refuses to answer questions on rumoured 20% workforce cuts

Multiple sources within the company have been discussing heavy cuts to its coal mining workforce, in advance of its divestment from coal in Queensland. See how Anglo responded.

Remote Control Dozer operator Wes Sann. Anglo American is trialling new technology involving a remote-controlled stockpile dozer ahead of plans to retro-fit the entire fleet.

A major Bowen Basin mining business could be cutting its workforce by as much as 20 per cent in advance of a potential sale of its mines.

Anglo American knocked back a BHP takeover bid for its business in May, but is still set to sell its Queensland coal assets, believed to be valued at roughly $US3bn- $US5bn.

In the interim, its stated goal is to get the cost of production down to under $100US per tonne of coal.

As part of that goal, it is understood the company will be cutting staff from its coal division, with sources citing figures as high as 20 per cent.

It is also understood some staff would be redeployed, though it is unclear how many.

The Daily Mercury approached Anglo American with the below questions, and gave the company multiple opportunities on the record to deny the 20 per cent reduction figure, which it declined to.

This was the response received by a company spokeswoman:
“Anglo American is continually focused on ensuring the long-term sustainability of its steelmaking coal operations in Australia.

“We are a significant employer in Queensland and take our responsibilities to our people and our communities seriously.

“We know our impact reaches far beyond our mine gates.

“The contribution our industry makes to the region today is the result of decades of good management, hard work and quality people.

“A complex cost environment makes it even more important we maintain safe and efficient operations fit for the future and continue driving economic prosperity in the Bowen Basin.”

Anglo American operates five steelmaking coal mines in the region: Moranbah North, Dawson, Aquila, Grosvenor, and Capcoal.

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Originally published as Anglo American refuses to answer questions on rumoured 20% workforce cuts