Jun 12, 2026 – 8.00pmThe union threatening to halt BHP iron ore exports has challenged the mining giant to match the wages paid to its members working on government infrastructure projects in the suburbs of Perth.The suggestion that electricians working for BHP at Port Hedland earn about 20 per cent less than peers working in Perth on a state-owned desalination project came as West Australian Premier Roger Cook backpedalled from his proposition that BHP workers should “stand up for your rights, get the best wages and conditions that you can”.Subscribe to gift this articleGift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe.Subscribe nowAlready a subscriber? Fetching latest articles