Australia’s Fair Work Commission has introduced enforceable minimum standards for on-demand gig workers, including a minimum hourly pay for delivery drivers and protections across the sector.

The standards define a higher rate for time from accepting a delivery to completing the job, while workers will still bear responsibility for maintaining third-party vehicle insurance.

The Transport Workers Union calls it a landmark reform, with backing from unions and major platforms such as Uber Eats and DoorDash.

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Go Digit General Insurance in Bengaluru focuses on digital underwriting and is valued for gig-economy exposure, though it faces competition and earnings volatility tied to external borrowing.

Insurers already offer products that could meet the new needs, but terms must align with the independent-contractor status the order preserves.

Industry arguments could limit the reach of mandated coverage, shaping future gig-worker protections.

The insurance requirement is interim, pending cases on last-mile parcel delivery and road transport contractors, with industry groups arguing for addressing terms through safety and workers’ compensation frameworks.

The policy aims to deliver life-changing improvements for workers who previously felt left behind by policy and industry practices.

Experts say the standards are interim and may evolve into a living document balancing protections with gig-work flexibility.

Quotes from TWU and industry leaders frame the reform as modern and protective while preserving flexibility.

Unions and workers have long pushed for protections for gig workers, highlighting the independent-contractor vs employee debate and extending coverage to about 250,000 delivery workers.