Why did workers at Inpex's Ichthys LNG facility reject the new employment agreement?

Workers rejected the new agreement because the Offshore Alliance — comprising the Maritime Union of Australia and the Australian Workers Union — stated it 'does not meet benchmark industry standards for wages and conditions'; the union had previously flagged that its 430 members would vote against it, and Inpex confirmed that 'a majority of eligible employees have cast their vote and the proposed agreement has not been endorsed.'

What is the immediate next step following the rejection of the contract, and what potential action could result?

Union members are currently voting on whether to take protected industrial action, with the ballot scheduled to close on April 24; this vote follows the rejection of the proposed agreement and raises the risk of a strike at the Ichthys LNG facility, which could exacerbate already tight global energy supplies.

Strike looms at Australia LNG plant as Inpex workers reject new contract

Apr 16, 2026

Workers at Japan's Inpex Ichthys LNG facility rejected a new contract, raising strike risks that could worsen global energy shortages. This follows existing supply constraints linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

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