Announcements

Introducing DashRoots Australia: Elevating Community Voices

New advocacy network will bring together local Australian voices to advocate for issues that will strengthen communities and create positive change

29/2/24
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DoorDash is proud to launch DashRoots across Australia, a grassroots community program that empowers local voices to advocate for public policies that impact the way they work and live. The program has been designed to give local communities a voice on major topics that impact them, from protecting and strengthening independent work, to helping local businesses grow, to investing in programs that can end hunger and promote public safety.

DoorDash merchant, Alan S., Saigon Summer, said, “Many small businesses in Australia rely on partnerships with third-party platforms like DoorDash, to reach new customers, boost overall orders and fulfil deliveries. Having access to an advocacy network like DashRoots will empower businesses like mine to reach policymakers and better serve our customers.”

To achieve the best outcomes for local communities, the voices of Dashers, merchants, and consumers must be at the table when gig industry policies are being discussed with government officials. In fact, a recent survey found that 93% of Australian Dashers feel that it’s important for them to be consulted on reform. In addition, almost half (43%), said that they would leave the industry if platforms controlled when and how they could work.

Protecting flexible work is key to helping Dashers and merchants alike thrive in the modern economy, and DashRoots will empower these voices to engage lawmakers and have a direct say in the policy-making process. DashRoots members may be invited to write to their local Members of Parliament and attend public policy events.

Retired soldier Jason K., 51, started Dashing in suburban Sydney this year. His wife works full-time as a child support worker and, outside the hours of her primary job, they deliver together to bring in extra income. Jason says, “DashRoots will give me a platform to share my story and push back on misinformation surrounding what gig-workers really want from the industry. In our household, DoorDash is something my wife and I do together to make extra money that supplements our family income. It has been fantastic to earn money on our own terms”

Representing the voices of local Australians, DashRoots members will have access to resources like policy advocacy workshops, professional development webinars, local community meet ups, and opportunities to give back to their communities. They will also have opportunities to have a direct say and provide feedback on legislative processes either at the council, state or Federal level.

“DashRoots is going to elevate the voices of Dashers, merchants and consumers from community conversations to the policymakers table, giving them the opportunity to speak out on gig-reforms and changes that will directly impact their way of life. We believe this is incredibly significant in shaping reforms and are proud to be implementing the program in Australia this year.” Rachel Murphy, Director, Head of Policy, ANZ.

The strength of our community comes from within, and DashRoots will elevate the voices of people who come together on DoorDash daily to maximise our impact for good. DashRoots will connect this incredible network to maximise our impact for good.

Click here to learn more about DashRoots in Australia.