Australian dock workers demand 28-hour week over AI

Australian dock workers, represented by the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA), are demanding a 28-hour work week with no loss of pay in response to DP World's plans to expand the use of artificial intelligence and automation at its Australian ports. DP World, a Dubai-based port operator handling nearly 40% of Australia's containerized trade, has proposed AI-assisted remote-control cranes and driverless vehicles. A report commissioned by the MUA from the Centre for International Corporate Tax Accountability and Research estimates that up to 1,000 jobs (over 60% of the wharf and maintenance workforce) could be threatened. DP World rejects the union's characterizations, stating that the company is a long-term investor in Australia's infrastructure and that the claims are speculative. The union has held up automation for 18 months through safety approvals and consultation processes. The dispute highlights tensions over AI adoption and worker protections.