Food delivery drivers and Amazon parcel couriers could soon be entitled to minimum wage rights, superannuation payments, and insurance, following a submission to the Fair Work Commission (FWC).
came into effect earlier this week that made it possible for gig workers to be covered by FWC decisions.
Now, the Transport Workers’ Union has asked the FWC to grant new employment rights for workers on platforms like Uber Eats, Deliveroo, and Amazon Flex.
New rights
This week, a new set of workplace reforms.
The laws include the ‘and a new FWC panel to set “minimum standards” for gig workers. These are essential rights given to workers, like leave and minimum pay standards.
Workplace Relations Minister Murray Watt said the FWC’s new powers “will ensure gig workers… no longer fall through the cracks.”
Gig workers
The new laws cover gig workers hired as “independent contractors” by companies like Amazon, Uber, and Menulog.
Under the legislation, they’re considered “employee-like” workers.
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The Transport Workers’ Union said 19 such workers have died “on the job” in the past decade.
Union
The Transport Workers’ Union (TWU) made a submission to the FWC’s panel asking for extra rights and protections for food delivery drivers and parcel couriers, including:
Superannuation
Minimum hourly rates
Personal injury insurance
Dispute resolution options at a company
TWU National Secretary Michael Kaine said: “Making these applications… is a watershed moment for Australia’s 500,000+ transport workers, their families and the entire community.”
The FWC will now undergo a consultation process to set the new standards for gig workers.
It’s not clear how long this process will take.
