Recent legislative changes in Australia have introduced new regulations affecting international students and gig economy workers, particularly those in food delivery services. To provide clarity on these developments, two informative sessions are scheduled in Melbourne.
On Thursday, 14 November 2024, from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm, Sanmati Verma, Legal Director at the Human Rights Law Centre, will lead a session discussing recent modifications to student visa regulations and associated work restrictions. This event offers attendees the chance to engage directly with an expert in immigration law.
Following this, on Wednesday, 27 November 2024, from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm, the Fair Work Commission, in collaboration with the Gig Workers’ Hub, will host an event focusing on new laws impacting food delivery workers. Commissioner Tran, alongside Andrew Copolov from the Gig Workers’ Hub, will elucidate these legislative changes and address participants’ questions. The session will be held at the Gig Workers’ Hub, located at 506 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, with an option to join online via Microsoft Teams. Interested individuals are encouraged to register and submit their questions by 20 November 2024.
These sessions are timely, given the recent policy shifts. As of 1 July 2024, the Australian government reinstated work hour limitations for student visa holders, capping them at 48 hours per fortnight during study periods. This change follows a temporary relaxation during the pandemic to address workforce shortages. Additionally, new financial requirements have been implemented, with the financial capacity for student visa applicants set at $29,710 from 10 May 2024.
In the gig economy sector, significant reforms have been introduced to enhance protections for workers. The Fair Work Commission now possesses the authority to establish minimum standards for ’employee-like’ workers, a category that includes many gig economy participants. These reforms aim to address issues such as minimum pay rates and unfair deactivation from digital platforms.
FWC
These legislative changes have sparked discussions among stakeholders. While some argue that the reinstatement of work hour restrictions for student visa holders may limit their financial opportunities, others contend that it ensures a focus on academic commitments. Similarly, the gig economy reforms have been met with mixed reactions; proponents believe they offer necessary protections for workers, while critics express concerns about potential increases in operational costs for businesses.
The upcoming sessions provide valuable opportunities for affected individuals to gain a comprehensive understanding of these changes and their implications. Engaging with experts and authorities will enable attendees to navigate the evolving landscape of work rights and visa regulations in Australia effectively.
For those interested in attending, registration details and further information are available through the respective organising bodies.
Participants can join either in person or online via Zoom.
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