Problems for Melbourne?

Industrial action could cause problems for the Australian Grand Prix according to recent reports, as electrical workers may refuse services due to ongoing negotiations in regard to salary and job security. The time period up to and including the race weekend in a fortnight's time could see disruptions caused by a ban on electrical services being carried out.

"Our bans may impact on the grand prix and its preparations," said Michael Rizzo, the assistant secretary for the Australian Services Union. "Our bans say if there are power disconnections, we may not put them on again."

"Unfortunately the nature of these bans is other people are affected. It might be unfair, but the alternative is for us to do nothing. If you are going to make an impact, it is an unfortunate by-product that you are going to impact on people."

GP organizer Ron Walker doesn't think the industrial action is a threat to the race. "The unions are normally very co-operative and work very hard for all the things we do, so I don't expect it to happen," he said in regard to possible problems.

Minardi boss Paul Stoddart has already arrived in his native Australia as the team readies for the GP. He too believes there will be no problems: "I'm sure that whatever the issues they will be sorted," he said.