Gig workers in Australia earn income through digital platforms, enjoying flexibility but often lacking job security and benefits. New laws passed in early 2024 provide these workers with minimum pay and conditions, including protections from unfair conduct by platform operators.
Note: This is general information only, and for more specific advice you should speak to your union.
A gig worker is someone who earns income by providing on-demand services through digital platforms, such as Uber, Airtasker, or Deliveroo. These workers enjoy flexibility in choosing their jobs, setting their own hours, and often working remotely. However, they typically lack the job security and benefits associated with traditional employment, and their earnings can be inconsistent.
Because of this, gig workers are also commonly contractors rather than employees – meaning they missed out on important rights, including the minimum wage.
In early 2024 new laws were passed which provided new rights and protections for gig workers. Under the changes, the Fair Work Commission can apply minimum pay and conditions for ’employee-like’ workers – which includes workers who get their work through digital platforms. This can include things like protections from unfair account deactivation and other unfair conduct by platform operators.
Reach out to your union for more specific information about how you and your workmates can make the most of these new rights in your workplace, or enter your details below to receive updates on your rights at work.
Read more about your new rights at work.
This publication has been funded by the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations through the Productivity, Education and Training Fund grant program.