The Federal Government is on the brink of enacting legislation aimed at bolstering the rights of gig economy workers and casual employees.
The changes are expected to impact a quarter of a million Australians and herald the introduction of minimum work standards for those traditionally considered outside the ambit of employment protections.
Baseline for gig economy workers
As part of the proposed ‘Closing Loopholes’ legislation, the Fair Work Commission will be given authority to establish baseline standards for gig economy participants, including rideshare and food delivery drivers.
This sector's workers will attain an ‘employee-like’ status, contingent upon meeting basic criteria such as engagement under a services contract, execution of digital platform work and possession of low bargaining power.
This legislative package not only redefines employment but also charts a conversion path for casual workers towards more stable, permanent positions.
Furthermore, it introduces safeguards for road transport workers and institutes a ‘right to disconnect’, which protects employees from repercussions for non-responsiveness to work communications outside of standard hours.
Resistance from Opposition
The push for reform has met with resistance, with some critics raising potential cost implications for consumers.
Opposition voices, like Liberal Senator Matt O'Sullivan, have claimed the initiative will be detrimental to the industrial relations landscape.
But the policy’s proponents, including Senator David Pocock and the Greens, argue that minor price adjustments are a fair exchange for ensuring worker safety and fairness.
And government spokesperson Tony Burke countered that there were moral and safety imperatives underpinning the reforms.
Pocock's backing, essential for the bill's progression, came after he secured amendments aimed at enhancing worker protections.
The ABC called attention to the story of Utsav Bhattarai, a Canberra-based food delivery driver, which highlights the challenges faced by many in the gig economy.
Bhattarai spoke of the strenuous conditions and financial uncertainty endemic to the sector and expressed hope that the new legislation will provide much-needed security and autonomy.
The Senate is now gearing up for a pivotal vote over the changes, which stand to usher in potentially transformative protections for gig economy and casual workers, promising a fairer, more equitable work environment.