It is with great sadness that we note that a 27-year-old food delivery cyclist was struck and killed last Tuesday evening in a Port Melbourne hit-and-run incident. A 32-year-old driver later handed himself in to police and was charged with failing to stop and render assistance.
The Transport Workers’ Union (TWU) says the cyclist killed is the 18th food delivery rider known to have died in Australia since 2017. TWU national secretary, Michael Kaine, said in a media release that his tragic incident showed the need for safe and fair conditions for gig workers.
Gig workers in Australia working in food delivery are some of the most vulnerable workers in this country.
“Food delivery riders currently have no rights like a safe and fair minimum wage, sick leave, protection against unfair contract terminations, and workers’ compensation in the horrific event something goes wrong.” Read more: TWU Press release 18th DELIVERY RIDER KILLED IN AUSTRALIA SHOWS CRITICAL URGENCY FOR GIG ECONOMY STANDARDS