On November 28, 2025, Australia’s Fair Work Commission (FWC) published the results of a protected industrial action ballot, showing that union members at Nyrstar’s Port Pirie smelter in South Australia have voted to authorise industrial action. Potential actions may include stoppages and stop-work meetings, as well as bans on overtime and work outside ordinary hours. According to foreign media reports, subsequent measures could include bans on shift changes and overtime, although whether the situation escalates into a full stoppage will depend on formal strike notice from the unions and the progress of negotiations with the company.
Port Pirie is primarily a lead and polymetallic smelting operation, with annual refined lead capacity of around 180 kt. Previously, on August 5, 2025, Nyrstar received approximately A$135 million in funding from the Australian federal government and the governments of South Australia and Tasmania, aimed at supporting operations at Hobart and Port Pirie and advancing restart and critical metals development plans. The move has also reignited debate over government financial support for struggling smelters.
At present, the unions have not issued formal strike notice. Nyrstar said it is continuing discussions with relevant parties. SMM will continue to monitor developments.
