The inquiry, chaired by former Fair Work Ombudsman Natalie James, will investigate the extent of the on-demand sector and the status of people working with or for on-line companies or platforms in Victoria. It will also examine contracting arrangements, and whether these are being used to avoid workplace laws and other statutory obligations.

Examples of the on-demand sector include ridesharing and food delivery services such as uber, DiDi, and deliveroo, platforms for hiring freelance workers such as Airtasker, freelancer and upwork, as well as more specialised platforms providing professional services.

This inquiry has potential implications for both providers and users of on-demand services as well as traditional businesses that compete with on-demand services. The inquiry also has potential implications for providers and users of traditional independent contracting arrangements.

The Victorian Chamber will be representing members and making a submission to the inquiry. We will also be facilitating consultations with business in the new year.

The full terms of reference can be accessed here. A background paper is expected to be released by the Victorian Government mid-December.

Members seeking further information or wanting to participate in consultations in the new year should email Hugh Horsfall from the Policy and Advocacy Team or call (03) 8662 5106.