Australia approves new rules benefiting gig delivery workers

Conflict Background & Triggers

https://p.dw.com/p/5If6K Delivery drivers and riders in Australia are to get a fairer deal Image: Rafael Ben Ari/Avalon/IMAGO Advertisement Food and grocery delivery workers in Australia will be paid at least A$31.30 (€19.15, $22.11) an hour and be given accident insurance on the job under new rules approved by Australia's industrial relations tribunal. The hourly rate, set out in an order issued by the Fair Work Commission (FWC) on Tuesday, is above Australia's minimum wage of A$26.44. The FWC's order, which

could serve as a precedent for other countries, has been hailed by the Transport Workers Union (TWU) as "a landmark moment for the Australian gig economy." The union called the new rules a "world-leading set of standards." What rights and protects did the FWC give gig delivery drivers?

Operational Developments & Terrain

The minimum hourly rate will be paid for "engaged" time, i.e. the time between taking on a delivery job and completing the commission. The order, which takes effect on August 17, also requires companies to provide a "reasonable minimum level of cover" ​for personal accident insurance on the job, without specifying exactly how much.

Strategic Objectives & Posture

The workers will, however, still be responsible for maintaining ⁠third-party ⁠insurance for the vehicles used for deliveries. Unions and workers in Australia ​have long sought ⁠reforms benefiting gig workers. They have previously not been covered by many of the protections given to other employees , being classified as "independent contractors." The new rules are expected to affect some 250,000 workers.

Analytical Prognosis

Gig workers worldwide encounter exploitative work conditions To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video UN moves to protect gig workers The FWC's order comes after the United Nations' International Labour Organization (ILO) in June adopted a new global treaty for decent working conditions in the gig economy. The standards laid down in the treaty, the first global treaty of its kind, still need ratification by governments. In Australia, the

parliament passed legislation in 2023 and 2024 under the center-left Labor government that granted gig workers more negotiating rights over minimum pay and working conditions.