Australia’s gig-economy is undergoing one of its biggest shifts in years, thanks to a historic agreement between the Transport Workers Union (TWU) and two major delivery platforms: Uber Eats and DoorDash.
The deal introduces a minimum safety-net pay rate and stronger protections for delivery riders and drivers - a major step forward for thousands of workers, including many international students who rely on flexible gig work for income.
The agreement, which still requires approval from the Fair Work Commission, sets a minimum rate for “engaged time”, meaning the period when a worker is actively completing a delivery. This is significant because gig-economy earnings have traditionally been highly variable. With this new baseline, workers can expect more predictable income during the time they are actually performing work. However, it’s important to note that the rate does not cover waiting time between orders, and penalty rates (such as late-night or weekend loadings) are not included at this stage.
Beyond pay, the deal includes improved protections: platform-funded accident insurance, clearer dispute-resolution pathways, and the right to union representation. For students working on bikes or scooters, often in heavy traffic or late at night, this added safety net is particularly meaningful. Accidents have been a concern for riders in recent years, so knowing that medical costs or lost income may be covered adds some essential peace of mind.
For international students, the appeal of gig work is clear: flexibility. You can work around your class schedule, exam periods, or part-time jobs, and pick up shifts when you need extra income. Importantly, this flexibility remains untouched under the new agreement. Uber Eats and DoorDash have confirmed that workers will keep control over when they choose to log in and accept jobs.
Still, the deal has its limits. Since the minimum rate only applies to active delivery time, your total earnings will still depend on how many jobs you receive, how busy your area is, and the time of day you work. Students should be mindful that gig work remains inconsistent, and it may not always provide enough hours or income on its own. It’s best viewed as a supplementary source of money rather than a primary one.
There are also reminders around visa compliance. International students must continue to follow their visa work-hour limits during study periods, even if delivery apps make it easy to pick up extra shifts. Always ensure your work does not interfere with your academic progress. Your studies must remain the priority.
If you’re considering or already working in the gig economy, here are some practical tips:
- Track your real earnings, including time spent waiting.
- Factor in expenses like fuel, bike upkeep, warm/wet-weather gear or phone data.
- Make use of added protections if something goes wrong - that’s what they’re there for.
- Keep your schedule balanced so work doesn’t clash with your study commitments.
Overall, this deal is a positive change for international students. It offers a fairer, safer foundation for gig work while keeping the flexibility that makes it attractive in the first place. While it doesn’t fix every issue in the on-demand delivery sector, it’s an important step towards more stable and respectful work for the thousands of students who rely on it.
