Gig worker death: Adil Abbas killed while food delivering in Campbelltown

A food delivery rider had only just arrived in Australia before his life was taken away after tragic two-vehicle crash in southwest Sydney.

The fatal crash happened at the intersection of Allman and Lindesay streets, Campbelltown, on Saturday evening. Picture: Google Maps

The man killed in a two-vehicle collision in southwest Sydney on Saturday night had only been living in Australia for a matter of weeks.

Adil Abbas, 20, arrived in Australia in July to study and was delivering food for UberEats at the time of the crash.

Co-founder and president of Community Care Kitchen Rima Waizani took to the organisation’s Facebook group on Monday to confirm Mr Abbas’ death, telling members “To Allah we belong and to him we will return”.

“Sadly a brother named Adil Abbas was involved in a motorbike accident last night whilst doing deliveries, sadly he has returned to his creator,” Ms Waizani wrote.

“Adil had only moved to Australia 3-4 weeks ago to study and work.

Pakistan national Adil Abbas killed arrived in Australia to study in July. Picture: Supplied

“[May Allah have mercy on him] and grant him the highest level of Jannah.”

Transport Workers‘ Union National Secretary Michael Kaine said in the wake of the incident food delivery riders need safe working conditions and for the deadly pressures on them to be eased through transport reform.

“Just three weeks after the tragic loss of Akshay Deepak Doultani, another food delivery rider has died at work. Our thoughts are with the rider’s loved ones at this terrible time,” he said.

“Food delivery riders currently have no rights like a safe and fair minimum wage, sick leave, protection against unfair contract terminations and workers’ compensation in the horrific event something goes wrong.

“While nothing will compensate for the loss of 13 food delivery riders killed, we must act to stop more transport gig worker deaths on our roads, and to ensure all workers have access to safe working conditions and workers’ compensation for themselves and their families.”

The Pakistan Welfare Organisation in Australia described the horrific event as a “poignant reminder” to stay safe on the road.

“Adil Abbas, hailing from Mandi Bahauddin, Pakistan, and a recent student immigrant to Australia, met a tragic end in an unfortunate accident,” they wrote.

“The incident took place in Campbelltown, where he was involved in delivering goods on a motorbike.

“This unfortunate event is a poignant reminder for us all to emphasise road safety and avoid jeopardising lives.

“Let’s make a conscious effort to remain attentive and awake while driving or riding. Your safety matters.”

The crash occurred about 6pm on Saturday, with emergency services called to the intersection of Allman and Lindesay streets, Campbelltown, following reports a car and a motorcycle had collided.

Mr Abbas was pronounced dead at the scene, while the driver of the ute – a 30-year-old man – was taken to Campbelltown Hospital for mandatory testing.

Police established a crime scene which was forensically examined by specialist police and a report is being prepared for the coroner.

Anyone with information or dashcam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.