BHP cuts 700 mining jobs
About 700 jobs are being axed at BHP Billiton's joint venture BMA coal mines in Queensland.
About 700 jobs are being axed at BHP Billiton's joint venture BMA coal mines in Queensland.
BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance has advised staff at its mines in the Bowen Basin about the job cuts.
BMA's asset president Lucas Dow said the coal industry was facing challenging market conditions and the job cuts were needed to ensure the operation's long-term success.
But he also noted the impact the news would have on staff and the community, particularly given BMA was the largest private employer in the Bowen Basin, with over 10,000 workers and contractors on its books.
"BMA will continue to work with employees and contractors throughout the process and ensure everyone is treated fairly and with respect," Mr Dow said.
"We will also keep our community stakeholders informed throughout the process."
BMA decided to cut the jobs after a review of its mines showed its operational workforce numbers were more than needed to safely and efficiently operate the business.
Coal prices have also been falling, while the Australian dollar has remained above US90 cents for much of the year.
BHP cut 163 coal mining jobs at its Mt Arthur coal mine in the NSW Hunter Valley in July, also citing tough market conditions.
Those cuts followed the loss of 500 jobs at its iron ore business.
Last week, BHP would not confirm reports that jobs had been axed at its Nelson Point operations in Port Hedland, but said some staff in the Pilbara town would be made redundant in the coming months.
Queensland Premier Campbell Newman said he felt for affected BMA staff.
"My heart goes out to them and their families and I call on BMA to ensure that every assistance is given to these workers and their families - that's what particularly needs to happen right now," he told reporters.
"They need support, they need assistance to find other jobs and if necessary also assistance in terms of relocation.
"I'm also concerned about regional communities that are going to be impacted as well."
BHP's share price fell by 1.38 per cent to $34.38 per share at 10am.
