Labor Government launches assault on WA’s resources sector with proposed Greens deal, bonuses for FIFO workers

The Albanese Government is under fire from major businesses in the State for launching an assault on the resources sector on two fronts — flirting with the Greens who want a debilitating “climate trigger” as part of new environment laws, and emboldening unions in the Pilbara to take on BHP and demand massive bonuses for workers. In an escalation of the growing hostility between business and Labor, Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek revealed on Wednesday she is in advanced talks with the Greens to get a deal done on the so-called Nature Positive laws, which the Business Council of Australia warned would threaten critical minerals and green energy projects in WA. Ms Plibersek said she was open to a deal with the Greens, a prospect that has infuriated and terrified the industry, fearing a “climate trigger” could block major projects. BCA chief executive Bran Black insisted that the Government should pull the proposed legislation, which could be introduced to the Senate on Thursday, rather than negotiate with the Greens. “A Greens deal would be reckless and could put many critical minerals and renewable energy projects in WA at risk,” he said. The climate concerns come as mining giant BHP is under siege by unions in the Pilbara. The Australian Workers Union has revealed it is demanding that thousands of workers be given a $10,000 “retention bonus” each year — on top of guaranteed annual pay rises.