TWU WELCOMES MENULOG TRIAL TO RECLASSIFY RIDERS & GIVE THEM RIGHTS

The Transport Workers’ Union has welcomed Menulog’s landmark announcement to begin a trial of an employment model that will reclassify riders and guarantee them minimum hourly payments and rights.

TWU National Secretary Michael Kaine has welcomed the move and said Federal Government regulation is critical at this juncture to protect companies doing right by workers.

“This is a watershed moment for the gig economy in Australia. For the first time, a food delivery company has realised the importance of awarding minimum pay and rights to riders and will move towards this model. We congratulate food delivery riders for raising their critical concerns about the deadly pressures of exploitative business models that has led Menulog to focus on improving conditions.

“The TWU has agreed to work with Menulog on this important trial which will challenge the myth that flexibility and fairness are at odds. Minimum pay and rights for riders will break apart the dependent, exploitative relationship that forces riders to work quickly and dangerously over long hours just to put food on the table.

“Finally, socially conscious consumers will be able to select a food delivery company that aligns with their values and the protections they know these essential workers deserve.

“It is vital for the Federal Government to level the playing field and regulate this industry to protect companies moving to provide essential rights and protections for workers. Menulog must be encouraged to continue along this trajectory rather than put at a competitive disadvantage,” said Kaine.

Menulog has announced it will pilot an employee model with riders in the Sydney CBD which will coincide with an analysis of its contractor riders’ to bridge the gap between pay and conditions. Menulog aims to find a solution to provide flexibility and fairness. The TWU will work with Menulog to ensure this leads to a safe, fair and sustainable outcome.