Fair Work Ombudsman probes Supp platform over alleged contractor misclassification

The Fair Work Ombudsman announced it will examine the hospitality marketplace Supp after a user alleged the platform classifies shift workers as independent contractors, potentially denying them statutory benefits. Supp, operating since 2017, enables venues to post shifts and handles payments, while its website tells workers to manage their own tax and super obligations. Employment partner Fay Calderone cautioned that contractual titles alone do not determine legal status and highlighted factors such as control and commercial risk.

CEO Jordan Murray rejected claims of sham contracting, arguing the app brings transparency and that businesses must meet their obligations. A Melbourne worker who has used Supp for three years described duties resembling those of an employee, and another user, Daniel McBurnie, expressed frustration over negligible super contributions from one-off shifts. The Ombudsman urged any concerned workers to contact the agency, offering an anonymous reporting tool.