Gig workers
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How we can help
The Victorian Small Business Commission (VSBC) can help resolve disputes between gig workers and their platforms where the gig worker hasn’t been able to resolve the matter directly with their platform.
Gig work is work that’s accessed through or organised by digital platforms (websites or apps). These platforms match people that need work done with people who want to do that work.
Gig workers can be employees or independent contractors (non-employees). Learn more about the difference and how to access help to clarify your work status.
Disputes can be:
- where the gig worker is experiencing payment issues
- where the gig worker thinks they’re being treated unfairly by their platform (e.g. if the worker thinks the closure/deactivation of their account is unfair)
- over rights and entitlements under Victoria’s owner driver laws
- over unfair contract terms – and more.
We offer dispute resolution services to independent contractor gig workers under the following legislation:
- Owner Drivers and Forestry Contractors Act 2005, which provides protection for owner drivers transporting goods only – this includes gig workers using their own vehicle to transport goods, including food delivery (such as DoorDash and Menulog)
- Small Business Commission Act 2017, which enables the VSBC to help resolve general business-to-business disputes for a broad range of gig workers, including rideshare drivers who transport passengers (such as Uber and DiDi drivers) and workers who provide care services including disability support, domestic services and a variety of other tasks (such as Mable and Airtasker workers)
Our specialised alternative dispute resolution services are effective, confidential and impartial.
We provide free help early on and can progress more complex matters to mediation. This is where an independent mediator helps the gig worker and their platform to negotiate a fair agreement, without the need for court. The mediation fee will be waived for gig worker applicants.
We can also arrange for an interpreter to assist at each stage of the process at no cost to either party. Gig workers can apply directly to the VSBC via our help portal.
More information
For more information, you can speak with a member of our team by calling 1800 878 964 or emailing us.