Amazon Flex, Regents Park: Delivery centre opens
Online retail giant Amazon has opened a western Sydney distribution hub where drivers will collect packages for consumers in an Uber-style operation for shoppers.
Parramatta
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Online retail giant Amazon has opened a distribution hub at Regents Park where drivers will collect packages for consumers in an Uber-style operation that gives workers a chance to be “their own boss’’.
The delivery station will operate as a pick-up point for drivers on the Amazon Flex app and will create about 30 on-site jobs and “hundreds of flexible earning opportunities for Sydneysiders”.
The Amazon Flex delivery program was introduced in Sydney and Melbourne in January with drives required to register detail on the app and complete a background verification process.
Amazon Australia operations director Craig Fuller said the delivery station allowed people to earn extra money at a time when there was an increased need for flexible work opportunities.
“Amazon Flex is our innovative delivery service, targeted at individuals who want to be their own boss and make extra money in their spare time,’’ he said.
Workers usually work over four-hour delivery blocks with “time to spare”.
“Delivery partners choose the blocks that suit their schedule,’’ Mr Fuller said.
“Our delivery partners tell us they enjoy the flexibility they have to schedule delivery blocks around their existing commitments whether it’s their primary job, or caring for their children and earn extra money in their spare time.’’
Flex’s roll out in Australia in January raised concerns over public liability but the company has defended its insurance policies.
“We require all delivery partners to have the required vehicle insurance,’’ Mr Fuller said.
“Amazon also provides insurance coverage, in addition to the delivery partner’s own policies, which includes coverage while delivering on behalf of Amazon, for damage to a third party’s vehicle or person.
“Safety, including that of our customers and the community, is our top priority.’’
The launch of the Regents Park centre comes amid coronavirus’ second wave gripping Sydney and growth in online shopping.