The union says the contract improves health and safety provisions for drivers operating on the Uber platform in Victoria. These measures are intended to strengthen protections for workers in what has historically been a lightly regulated segment of the labour market.
The dispute resolution process has been formalised with mandated time limits. Drivers will be able to challenge issues related to pay, suspension, ratings and deactivations through a defined mechanism set out in the collective agreement.
Fellow bargaining committee member Amninder Singh said the contract delivers concrete gains for drivers after more than a year of organising and negotiations. “With this contract, we have achieved fairness, fair pay, strong support and real tangible gains,” he said.
“This worker-led, historic first collective agreement demonstrates how collective organizing can help the changing workforce meet the current moment and stand up for fairness and accountability,” said Patrick Johnson, President of UFCW Local 1518. “The monetary gains, the health and wellness wins, and the protections that come with the contract ratified today will strengthen the rideshare industry for years to come.”
Background: 2022 agreement between Uber and UFCW Canada
The Victoria contract builds on a national framework first established between Uber Canada and UFCW Canada in January 2022. At that time, the parties announced a “historic national agreement” giving more than 100,000 drivers and delivery people on the Uber platform access to representation.