BHP’s ruthless management philosophy is behind the closure of the Gregory open-cut mine in Central Queensland announced today, says the CFMEU Miners Union.

The CFMEU, representing production workers at the mine, was not given any warning of the closure and will meet the company on Wednesday to discuss details.

Workers have been told the mine will close on October 10, which is causing anxiety for the workforce and their families, said Queensland Miners Union President Stephen Smyth.

“The company has not been transparent with its workforce while they’re staring down the barrel of losing their jobs – this is no way to win their trust.”

The announcement is an example of the management philosophy driven by CEO Marius Kloppers that a mine is to be shut down if there is any temporary slump in profitability, said Mr Smyth.

“BHP management just see these mines as money factories. If an operation starts to lose any money, even if it’s over a short-term issue, they will shut the mine down regardless of the impact on jobs and communities.

“This is no way for a responsible corporate citizen to behave. Invariably in mining, there are fluctuations in coal prices and in costs. 

“BHP will reopen Gregory when the numbers line up again – meantime they have caused havoc with hundreds of families’ livelihoods.

“BHP should use it or lose it. If they don’t think they can mine the lease profitably, they should hand it over to someone who can.”

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