Peabody Energy and MEU deadlocked in wage talks at Wambo washery

Peabody Energy and the Mining and Energy Union (MEU) have been unable to reach a wage agreement at the Wambo coal washery near Singleton, Australia. The dispute began in early May when 19 workers at the plant, part of Glencore's United Wambo joint venture, commenced industrial action. Since then, the parties have held 18 bargaining meetings without resolution.

Peabody imposed two lockouts, the first in late June and a 14‑day lockout beginning in mid‑July. The company says it presented an improved offer, including a revised position on the Accident Pay clause, but the MEU has not moved on remuneration. The union’s proposal would raise total annual pay to about $234,000, roughly a 17% increase over the four‑year agreement.