Independent Contractors of Australia supports Government policy on contracting

The progress made by the Coalition Government is substantial and far-reaching.
Their answers to our questions demonstrate this and demonstrate the legislative protective 'teeth' for independent contractors, which has provided a superior protective policy position for them.
The key features of the Coalition policy are:
• The definition of an independent contractor is totally secured as that at common law. This is hugely important because it settles a debate that has been going on for over two decades. It is consistent with International Labour Organisation positions.
• The important tax position relating to Personal Services Income is settled.
• Independent contractors are protected from industrial relations clauses that seek to restrict their business activities or deny them access to work.
• There are clear and robust protections from secondary boycotts.
• There are significant new opportunities under collective bargaining processes for independent contractors should they wish to access them.
• There is security for independent contractors in that they choose who represents them (if they seek representation) and that the control of their contract is firmly in their own hands. This is a fundamental human right.
• Independent contractors are protected from price-fixing. This is a key to securing fair business treatment.
All of these features are strongly supported by ICA. Taken in total, it is a policy package that is probably a world leader in recognising and protecting the rights of independent contractors
We thank the Minister for Small Business, Fran Bailey, for her immense interest in, and attention to, coordinating the Government's responses to the issues we raised. The Government has been diligent in its attention to policy detail and we appreciate this.

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