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Wed, 08 Jul 2026

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 Australia dock workers call for 28-hour week in AI talks

A union says workers are "in the crosshairs" of automation as AI is being tested across ports.
Australian dock workers, represented by the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA), are demanding a 28-hour work week with no loss of pay as their jobs become increasingly threatened by the expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation at ports. The union claims that port logistics giant DP World is leading the push for AI, which could put up to 1,000 workers' jobs at risk. DP World, based in Dubai, is testing AI tools to manage employees and work schedules, with plans to introduce AI-assisted remote-control cranes and driverless vehicles. The MUA says that the company's move is part of a pattern of pushing AI into operations without proper consultation with workers, who are currently working around 32-35 hours per week in some locations. The union wants DP World to pay a "social dividend" for introducing new technology that could lead to job losses.