BlueScope AGM Overshadowed by Workplace Fatality, Emphasizes Urgent East Coast Gas Reform and Decarbonization

BlueScope's AGM was overshadowed by a workplace fatality at the Port Kembla steelworks, where shareholders and executives held a minute's silence. CEO Mark Vassella described it as a tragedy and acknowledged the impact on the workforce and community. The company reported underlying EBIT of $738 million but downgraded its first-half earnings guidance. Gas and energy costs dominated discussions, with Vassella calling for urgent east coast gas reform to support Australian manufacturing and decarbonization. Incoming CEO Tania Archibald echoed Vassella's sentiments, emphasizing the importance of reforming the gas market.