Why did the Fair Work Commission deny INPEX's application to halt the protected industrial action at the Ichthys LNG project?

The Fair Work Commission, through Deputy President Michael Easton, denied INPEX's application because it was not convinced that terminating the protected industrial action would prevent significant economic damage or severe safety issues, noting that the facility has a history of managing both planned and unplanned outages, and that the claimed economic impact did not meet the legally required 'significant' threshold.

What immediate operational risk does INPEX face due to the ongoing industrial action at Ichthys LNG?

INPEX faces an imminent offshore shutdown likely on 16 or 17 June due to work stoppages—particularly bans on condensate and LNG loadings—which have caused a 'tank tops' situation at offshore storage and reduced compressor capacity from three to two of four units, severely constraining operations.

INPEX bid to halt strikes at Ichthys LNG denied, says shutdown possible this week

Jun 14, 2026

Australia’s Fair Work Commission denied INPEX’s request to end union strikes at the Ichthys LNG project, risking a shutdown this week. A halt could cut 10% of Australia’s LNG exports, tightening Asian supply amid ongoing labor negotiations.

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INPEX Bid to Halt Ichthys LNG Strikes Denied, Shutdown Possible This Week

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2026-05-25

Australian Union Suspends Planned Strikes at Inpex LNG Plant

2026-05-25

Australian LNG Union Cancels Ichthys Strike as Talks Progress

2026-06-01

Australian Union Begins Protected Industrial Action at All Three Inpex LNG Facilities

2026-06-02

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