Mr BARTON (Eastern Metropolitan) (09:44): Today I want to share my support for those who continue to fight for the rights of workers in the gig economy. Just recently Hungry Panda, a food delivery service, changed their company pay structure and as a result significantly reduced the delivery riders’ wages. In response two delivery riders organised a small protest. That same afternoon Hungry Panda terminated their employment and immediately blocked them from the app. Once again we see the consequences of the lack of rights for those working in the gig economy. It does not surprise me that Hungry Panda felt they could remove the incomes of two families with just a click of a button. It is clear that this system is not designed to support the workers but rather assist big tech in attaining even bigger bonuses for the suits in Silicon Valley. I commend the Transport Workers Union for taking this fight to the Fair Work Commission in a bid to have the riders’ jobs reinstated. Without clear regulation from governments we will continue to rely on organisations like the Transport Workers Union to ensure fundamental rights for workers in the gig economy are protected.

Members Statement – Hungry Panda 19Feb21

I want to share my support for those who continue to fight for the rights of workers in the gig economy.