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Business or Pleasure? A Comparison of Migrant and Non-Migrant Uber Drivers in Australia

Author

Listed:
  • Peter James Holtum

    (University of Queensland, Australia)

  • Elnaz Irannezhad

    (University of Queensland, Australia)

  • Greg Marston

    (University of Queensland, Australia)

  • Renuka Mahadevan

    (University of Queensland, Australia)

Abstract

Despite evidence of sub-standard working conditions and low rates of pay, drivers working on the Uber platform report varying levels of job-satisfaction. In order to better understand driver experience most research conducted to date differentiates driver experience by driver investment (time) on the platform. While this approach offers insight into driver motivations, it obfuscates key socio-political aspects of the globalised labour market; namely the precarity of many migrant workers. We present findings from a mixed methods study into migrant and non-migrant drivers on the Uber platform in Queensland, Australia. Specifically, our data illustrates key differences between migrants and non-migrants’ motivations to drive, their dependency on the platform, and their sense of autonomy and agency. Our findings suggest that migrant drivers experience greater levels of job insecurity, specifically around factors of job tenure, agency, and personal safety.

Suggested Citation

  • Peter James Holtum & Elnaz Irannezhad & Greg Marston & Renuka Mahadevan, 2022. "Business or Pleasure? A Comparison of Migrant and Non-Migrant Uber Drivers in Australia," Work, Employment & Society, British Sociological Association, vol. 36(2), pages 290-309, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:woemps:v:36:y:2022:i:2:p:290-309
    DOI: 10.1177/09500170211034741
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    References listed on IDEAS

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