A class action has been filed in Melbourne against Fortescue by women alleging decades of systemic sexual harassment, gender discrimination, and hostile work environments at Australian remote sites and accommodation villages.

The lawsuit argues Fortescue is liable under the Sex Discrimination Act for permitting an environment likely to subject women to harassment and discrimination, seeking accountability and compensation for affected workers.

Eligibility covers women subjected to harassment or discrimination at Fortescue’s Australian hubs or camps from February 1, 2006, to December 5, 2025, with participation available through the mining women class action website.

Fortescue’s 2025 safety report recorded 22 sexual-harassment cases, a 27% decrease from the prior year, while peers Rio Tinto and BHP reported increases or higher incidents.

Allegations include theft and warnings about washing underwear at on-site laundries, underscoring safety and dignity concerns for female workers.

Fortescue is investing about $300 million to upgrade FIFO living quarters and safety measures, including deadlocks, swipe-card access, CCTV, and better lighting.

The case sits among broader industry investigations into harassment at major miners, with Rio Tinto and BHP facing related FIFO culture concerns.

Plaintiffs describe a culture where reporting harassment leads to demotion, dismissal, silencing, or blacklisting from the industry.

Western Australia’s 2022 government review highlighted harassment and assault as widespread in FIFO mining and called for sweeping reforms.

Fortescue has not commented on the specific allegations, reiterating a commitment to a safe, respectful, and inclusive workplace, and noting that proceedings have not yet begun.

Industry context: Australia is the world’s top iron ore producer, with FIFO mining a significant portion of operations and women comprising about 22% of the mining workforce.

Aristata’s representative emphasized a mission to finance cases empowering marginalized voices and delivering justice for women in mining facing harassment and discrimination.