Wheatstone gas project to favour domestic labour

In the hunt for more than 5000 workers for its $28 billion Wheatstone gas project in Western Australia, Chevron will be favouring Australian companies and labour, according to the state government.

WA Commerce Minister Simon O'Brien said recently that Chevron and lead contractor Bechtel intended to fill as many positions as possible within Australia.

"I congratulate Chevron and Bechtel for taking this action at a time when there is considerable discussion about resource project proponents, and their attitude to the use of Australian workers," O'Brien said in a statement.

"In my experience, project proponents are very keen to employ locally, and overseas sourcing is only pursued when no viable local alternative exists."

Chevron has borne the brunt of union ire over the number of contracts it has awarded to Australian companies for its Gorgon liquefied natural gas project in WA, but has indicated that more local suppliers and contractors will be used during operational phases than during construction.

Source: AAP