Hospitality gig app Supp accused of classifying workers as contractors, risking lost benefits

Supp, a hospitality-shift marketplace launched in Melbourne in 2017, matches venues with ad-hoc workers and charges a 12 % service fee. The platform obliges workers to operate under their own Australian Business Numbers, classifying them as independent contractors rather than casual employees. Users such as Daniel McBurnie report that they performed typical bar, front-of-house and waiting duties without receiving superannuation, and that the app provides no mechanism for employers to remit it.

Lawyers from Maurice Blackburn argue the setup may constitute “sham contracting,” prohibited by the Fair Work Act and punishable by heavy fines. Supp’s chief executive Jordan Murray rejects the claims, stating the company cooperates with regulators and will adapt to evolving law. Union representatives warn the growing gigification of hospitality threatens workers’ security and entitlements, and calls have been made for a Fair Work Ombudsman audit.