Woodside Energy has successfully negotiated an agreement with three Australian maritime unions, ensuring Australian seafarers' involvement in the LNG vessel operations. The deal involves collaboration with the Construction, Forestry and Maritime Employees Union – Maritime Union of Australia Division; the Australian Institute of Marine and Power Engineers; and the Australian Maritime Officers Union. Approximately 70 Australian-resident seafarers will be employed on an LNG carrier within Woodside's chartered fleet, managed by ASP Ship Management Pty Ltd in Melbourne.

The agreement spans the period from April 2024 to the end of March 2029, covering maritime operations at Woodside’s North West Shelf Project and Pluto LNG Project. The maritime unions commit to cooperating fully with Woodside and its contractors, promoting ongoing development of strategic maritime skills. The deal aligns with Woodside's efforts to maintain a reliable supply of LNG, reinforcing the company's reputation as a steadfast LNG supplier in the Asian market. Woodside CEO Meg O’Neill emphasized the shared interest with unions in sustaining employment opportunities in the LNG industry, including shipping.

National Secretary of the Maritime Union of Australia, Paddy Crumlin, highlighted the significance of LNG shipping for Australian seafarers, providing rewarding employment opportunities aligned with national economic and strategic interests. The agreement fosters a cooperative relationship, with discussions expected to explore expanding the collaboration to future marine operations. Martin Byrne, Federal President of the Australian Institute of Marine and Power Engineers, expressed support for the agreement, emphasizing its foundation for long-term cooperation in the offshore maritime sector.

Mark Davis, Executive Officer of the Australian Maritime Officers Union, underscored the benefits of continuity in employment for skilled and experienced LNG ships’ officers. The agreement provides an opportunity for new trainees to gain valuable international experience in gas shipping operations. Overall, the agreement reflects a commitment to maritime skill development, employment stability, and Woodside's aspirations to grow its LNG operations in Australia.