"DP World Melbourne does not support this action, as it is disruptive to our customers and to the broader transport and logistics industry, which depend on efficient and reliable waterside operation through our terminals."

Sources allege MUA officials told DP World management the walk out was to attend a mass rally led by ACTU secretary Sally McManus in support of changing industrial laws at the next federal election.

Other officials of the MUA, now part of the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union, allegedly told Patrick management workers were supporting CFMEU state secretary John Setka, who is facing committal hearings over blackmail charges this week.

Rally supports Setka

The ACTU rally reportedly attracted more than 100,000 supporters. Union members stopped at 11am outside the Melbourne Magistrate Court where Mr Setka and his deputy Shaun Reardon were attending, with Electrical Trades Union state secretary Troy Gray and Victoria Trades Hall secretary Luke Hilikari speaking out in support of the officials.

So proud to be a part of this great movement!

Time to #ChangeTheRules !

View from level 5 Magistrates Court!#auspol pic.twitter.com/5Iw8HWDiD1 — John Setka (@CFMEUJohnSetka) May 9, 2018

Mr Setka has been charged with blackmail for allegedly threatening concrete company Boral with a secondary boycott if it did not cease supplying builder Grocon, which was in dispute over union demands to choose paid health and safety delegates on sites.

He is facing two weeks of committal hearings to determine if there is enough evidence to proceed to trial.


Mr Hilikari said "we stand in solidarity with John and Shaun". "Union organising and advocating for worker safety is not a crime, yet these two officials have been dragged before the courts".

"Our system is rigged against working people and their elected leaders, and we need to change the rules."

John Setka has been charged with blackmail for allegedly threatening concrete company Boral with a secondary boycott if it did not cease supplying builder Grocon. Joe Castro

A Toll spokesperson confirmed "a number of our Melbourne dock workers, who are members of the MUA, are participating in an organised union march through the city today".

"We are disappointed this action was taken without prior notice to Toll as we are committed to maintaining trust and open dialogue with our people and their representatives. Our immediate focus is to minimise any impacts on customers."

The Australian Mines and Metals Association, which has appealed the merger of the MUA and CFMEU, pointed to the port shutdown as evidence of the impact the new 'super union' will have on business.

"Today's events demonstrate how coordinated industrial action between the CFMMEU's construction and maritime divisions can have immediate and damaging impacts on the economy, the community and our international reputation as a reliable place to invest and do business," chief executive Steve Knott said.

A spokeswoman for DP World said operations resumed at its Melbourne terminal at 2pm.