Supporting sensible reform that raises the bar for one of Australia’s largest workforces 

Uber today launched a new campaign to elevate the voices of more than 150,000 gig economy workers who earn through the Uber and Uber Eats app in Australia.

The campaign, Flexibility Works, comes as the Federal Government considers policy reforms for the gig economy related to worker conditions and benefits. Uber has previously joined the TWU and industry peers in calling for legislation that preserves the flexibility gig workers value while delivering better protections and security for drivers and delivery people.

Flexibility Works focuses on what matters to gig workers, including rideshare drivers and delivery people, as the reform process plays out. Drivers and delivery people overwhelmingly say that being able to choose when and how they work is essential to their experience, with nine in 10 saying they would not continue driving or delivering should that flexibility go away [Ipsos]. 

“Work looks vastly different than it did even a decade ago, and the Government’s reform process is critical to providing security and certainty to Australia’s gig workers. We look forward to collaborating in this process to ensure we get this once-in-a-generation opportunity right for the workers who will be impacted,” said Uber Eats ANZ Managing Director, Bec Nyst.

“Independent gig workers make up one of Australia’s largest workforces, and we want to elevate their voices in the gig economy debate. Workers have consistently told us they want any future policy to protect flexibility, while also providing clear, fit for purpose standards and greater benefits to improve independent work. We are hopeful the Government will ensure any new reforms will reflect the priorities of these workers.”

Recent research shows that 82% of drivers and delivery people on the Uber platform support reform that would combine the flexibility of being an independent contractor with some additional benefits and protections. Uber data also shows that only 7% of drivers and delivery people using the platform are doing so in a way that resembles full-time work. This demonstrates a clear need for new, bespoke legislation that reflects Australia’s modern, diverse and increasingly flexible workforce.

Given the importance of a thriving gig economy to Australia’s future, Uber has expressed its eagerness to consult with the Government to help shape reform at this early stage in the process.

“We recognise that while it’s still early days, we want to do our part and contribute to the consultation process so that legislated reform acknowledges the unique nature of gig work and the significant contribution that workers are making to our economy. We believe drivers and delivery people should be represented as part of this process,” said Uber ANZ Managing Director, Dom Taylor.  

“Together, we can deliver meaningful reform and protections not just for the 150,000 people earning with Uber, but also the hundreds of thousands of independent contractors who participate in Australia’s gig economy. Impactful reform will also benefit the tens of thousands of businesses that have grown their businesses and customer bases with the help of a strong gig economy.”  

The research, prepared by independent global research agency Ipsos, showed that 66% of drivers and delivery people  prefer to be independent contractors but that there is still a desire for increased financial security. 

“Flexibility is an important value in society these days. For me, the flexibility offered through Uber means that I can manage my life successfully, including work, study and my mental health. Flexibility allows me to be on the road when it works for me,” said Fadi K., who’s been driving with Uber for more than seven years.

The Federal Government has committed to introducing a Bill to Parliament this year that will expand the powers of the Fair Work Commission to set minimum pay and conditions for gig economy workers. Uber agreed to a landmark deal with the Transport Workers Union in 2022 and recently joined industry peers in making a joint submission to the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations that outlines a shared vision for reform.

Today’s campaign features stories and perspectives from Australians working in the gig economy, highlighting how flexible earnings opportunities support their busy, modern day lifestyles.

To find out more about the campaign, please visit uber.com/gigreform.

The latest Ipsos research can be found here.