Good news for Uber drivers? Breaking down new protections for gig economy workers

Whether it’s a big night out in the city or ordering take-out for a movie night at home, Uber drivers often have our backs.

Whilst rideshare companies have opened a world of convenience to its users, it has also created a system where drivers can be deactivated from the app without a clear explanation – leaving them distressed, out of work, and prior to 26 February 2025 – with limited options to dispute their loss of work.

What is new as of 26 February 2025?

Unfair Deactivation is a new claim available to certain gig economy workers and is likely to include Uber drivers. When workers have their accounts deactivated for an unfair reason, they may apply to the Fair Work Commission to challenge the decision.

There is a 21-day time limit from when their account is deactivated in order to make the claim.

If the worker is successful with their claim, then they will generally get their accounts back and should be able to work again. The Commission may also order the Company to pay the worker money they lost while their account was deactivated.

What protections are out there for drivers who do are not part of the gig economy?

Road transport contractors often have little options when their contracts are ended prematurely by the other business. Similar to unfair deactivation, as of 26 February 2025, regulated road transport workers can apply to the Fair Work Commission where their contracts have been ended for an unfair reason, or for no reason at all – this claim is called an unfair termination claim.

There is a 21-day time limit from when the contract was terminated to make the claim.

If the worker is successful with their claim, the Fair Work Commission can order that a new contract is formed, and compensation may be ordered in certain circumstances.

Visit the Fair Work Commission for more information.

Disclaimer: Please be aware that this blog post provides general information only. It is not legal advice. If you have a question about how the law applies to your specific situation, you can click here to request free legal assistance.