Advertisement

Food Delivery Workers Just Scored A Big Pay Boost

August 18, 2026 12:30 pm in by

If you’ve ever wondered how much your Uber Eats driver actually makes from delivering your dinner, there’s some big news.

New rules have officially kicked in, giving food and grocery delivery workers a guaranteed minimum pay rate of $31.30 an hour.

The changes apply to workers on platforms including Uber Eats and DoorDash, and are being described as a world first.

Article continues after this ad
Advertisement

So, What’s The Catch?

The $31.30 rate applies to “engaged time”, which means the clock starts when a worker accepts a delivery and ends when the job is completed.

Workers aren’t guaranteed $31.30 for every hour they’re logged into the app waiting for an order.

If their earnings fall below the minimum during the relevant period, the platform will need to top up their pay.

It’s More Than Just Money

Article continues after this ad
Advertisement

The new rules also bring personal accident insurance for workers while they’re on the job, along with new protections around disputes and representation.

The changes are expected to benefit around 250,000 gig workers across Australia.

Despite concerns that higher driver pay could lead to more expensive deliveries, Uber Eats and DoorDash say they’re not planning to raise customer prices as a result.

So, What Does This Mean For Your Dinner?

For delivery workers, it means a little more security when they’re out on the road.

Article continues after this ad
Advertisement

And for the rest of us? Well, maybe it’s time to give your delivery driver an extra big “thanks” next time they arrive with the goods.

Advertisement