Workers sacked by email and text protest in Sydney overnight

Workers sacked by email and text message, and their supporters, have remained at Port Botany in Sydney overnight to protest against Hutchison Ports Australia.

Union chiefs have described the company as "heartless'' over its sacking of 97 employees in Sydney and Brisbane.

The Maritime Union of Australia has appealed to the Fair Work Commission which has ruled that striking workers should return to their jobs.

The union claims the company is turning away business so it can reduce the workforce and rebuild without union members.