Premier

Have Your Say About The Gig Economy In Victoria

20 December 2018

Victorians will be able to have their say on their experiences with “gig economy” businesses like ride sharing services, as part of the Andrews Labor Government’s Inquiry into the on-demand workforce.

Minister for Industrial Relations Tim Pallas and Chair of the Inquiry into the On-Demand Workforce Natalie James called for Victorians to share their experience of working, operating a business or consuming goods or services in the on-demand workforce.

The On-Demand Workforce Inquiry, which commenced in October 2018, is seeking to improve understanding of the on-demand workforce in Victoria.

Digital platforms that connect workers to consumers and businesses are providing Victorians with greater choice and flexibility, but there is currently very little information available about the size of the industry or conditions of the workforce.

A key focus of the Inquiry is to explore the arrangements covering workers in the on-demand workforce, looking at the legal status of people working with or for online companies or platforms in Victoria.

This will include reviewing the application and effective enforcement of workplace laws – including workers’ compensation, superannuation and health and safety laws for these workers.

The Inquiry will also gather information about the impact on businesses operating outside of the on-demand economy, addressing concerns about the lack of a level playing field for businesses.

All Victorians who have participated in the on-demand workforce – such as workers, consumers or businesses – are encouraged to have their say and submit evidence, examples or case studies to the Inquiry.

A background paper, which provides an overview of relevant material and suggested questions and issues for participants to consider, is available to help people frame their submissions.

Submissions are open until 6 February 2019 and the Inquiry is expected to deliver a final report to the Government in late-2019.

To find out more information, check out the background paper and have your say on the impact of the gig economy in Victoria, visit www.vic.gov.au/on-demandinquiryExternal Link

Quotes attributable to Minister for Industrial Relations Tim Pallas

“While we know that some are benefitting from the gig economy, we need to make sure that conditions for workers are safe and fair and that there’s a level playing field for businesses.”

“This is an important step to understand the impact of these news digital platforms on the way Victorians work.”

Quote attributable to Chair of the Victorian Inquiry into the On-Demand Workforce Natalie James

“I want to hear from everyone who is involved in any way – workers, consumers and businesses – to help us truly understand the nature, extent and impact of the on-demand workforce.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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