Australia's Fair Work Commission ruled an Uber driver retained gig worker protections despite a nine-week break. The driver met "regular basis" criteria under the Digital Labour Platform Deactivation Code.
The driver averaged more than the minimum required hours and days per week over the preceding six months. Uber deactivated the driver shortly after his return. Uber argued the absence broke the work pattern.
The commission dismissed this objection, focusing on the six-month average leading to deactivation. This case tests Australia's new laws protecting "employee-like" workers. The ruling sets a precedent for future gig economy rights and protections.