The High Court case that could change your job
Summary
This episode delves into how the gig economy, exemplified by companies like Uber, has led to a rise in independent contractors without traditional employee rights. A landmark High Court ruling involving two truck drivers upheld their contractor status, raising concerns about a widespread erosion of workplace protections. The discussion explores potential legislative interventions and the profound implications for the future of work in Australia if these issues remain unaddressed, potentially creating a "dual society" of protected and unprotected workers.Episode description
Companies like Uber and Airtasker have transformed the so-called ‘gig economy’ by hiring thousands of workers as independent contractors, rather than employees.
But this practice has a downside - workers aren’t guaranteed basic rights like a minimum wage, superannuation or leave.
It’s a model that is spreading across the Australian economy, removing more and more workers from traditional safety-nets.
Recently, two workers pushed back against this model of employment and took their case all the way to the High Court. The court’s decision could fundamentally change the nature of employee-employer relationships for everyone in Australia.
Today, journalist Kieran Pender on the landmark high court decision, and the future of work in Australia.
Guest: Lawyer and contributor to The Saturday Paper Kieran Pender.
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