Outworker
An outworker is someone who performs their work duties at home or at a location not typically considered a business premises. This term is often used in industries like textile, clothing, or footwear, where such arrangements are common.
Outworkers are often contractors or employees who carry out their job tasks in a setting that's not a standard business location, like their home. This arrangement is particularly prevalent in industries like textile, clothing, and footwear. Outworkers are unique in that they might not have a fixed workplace, offering them flexibility in their work environment. However, they are still subject to employment laws and protections just like workers in more traditional settings.
Protections for outworkers
Outworkers in the textile, clothing and footwear industry have special protections under the Fair Work Act and the Textile, Clothing, Footwear and Associated Industries Award 2020. Many contract outworkers are treated as employees for key purposes, businesses higher up the supply chain can be liable for unpaid amounts, and work given out must be recorded. For example, a fashion label that gives sewing work to a home-based outworker must make sure the outworker is paid at least the award rate for the work.
Read our guide to employee versus independent contractor.
General information only
This content is general information about Australian employment law, current at the date it was last reviewed. It does not take your circumstances into account and is not legal advice. For advice about your situation, call Employment Compass on 1300 144 002.
Last reviewed: October 2026
Explore more terms
Looking for a related term? Browse plain-English definitions of Fair Work and employment law terms and acronyms, or call our 24/7 HR advice line.
Back to Glossary