Academic writers make up one of largest ‘gig worker’ industries

Report points to insecure working conditions for technical writers employed by Australia’s universities

Casual staff employed by Australia’s universities to edit research papers and write grant applications are among an increasing number of freelance or “gig workers” exposed to poor wages and work conditions, according to a state government inquiry.

In a report published this month, the inquiry says that academic and technical writers account for 9 per cent of “platform workers”—those who access jobs through online services and apps—in Australia.