What caused the delay in loading the Pacific Breeze LNG tanker at Australia's Ichthys plant?

The delay was caused by a two-hour work stoppage conducted by workers affiliated with the Offshore Alliance — comprising the Maritime Union of Australia and the Australian Workers' Union, later joined by the Electrical Trades Union — over an unresolved wage dispute following failed Fair Work Commission-facilitated bargaining on pay and conditions.

How significant is the Ichthys LNG plant to Australia's and the global LNG supply chain, especially amid current market tensions?

The Ichthys plant accounts for about 10% of Australia’s LNG output — Australia being the world’s second-largest LNG producer — and produces approximately 9.3 million metric tons of LNG annually, primarily for Asian buyers; its disruption poses tangible supply risks at a time when global LNG markets are already tightened by infrastructure damage in Qatar linked to the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran and heightened shipping risks through the Strait of Hormuz, contributing to a 75% surge in Asia spot LNG prices to $18.20 per mmBtu.

Workers' Strike Delays LNG Tanker Loading at Australia's Ichthys Plant

Jun 2, 2026

A limited strike by workers at Inpex's Ichthys LNG facility in Australia has delayed a Taiwan-bound tanker, highlighting supply risks in a market where prices have surged 75% amid geopolitical tensions.

reuters

2026-05-25

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Australian LNG Union Cancels Ichthys Strike as Talks Progress

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Workers' Strike Delays LNG Tanker Loading at Australia's Ichthys Plant

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