Industry
Government pushes worker presumption rule, platform industry on alert
The government is pushing to revise the Labour Standards Act to introduce a “worker presumption rule” from May 1, prompting concern across platform industries. The change would shift the burden of proof from special employment workers and freelancers to businesses, which would have to show independent operations and lack of direction or supervision. Delivery platforms foresee higher labour costs and reduced hiring. Content and staffing intermediaries also expect disputes over proof and legal responsibility.