Victoria Uber drivers become first in Canada to gain union status

In a landmark decision that could reshape the future of gig work in Canada, the B.C. Labour Relations Board has certified over 500 Uber drivers in Victoria as union members under the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 1518. This is the first time gig workers in Canada have been granted union status—a milestone that reflects growing momentum for labour rights in the platform economy.

The move recognizes Uber drivers as workers eligible for collective bargaining—a significant shift in how gig economy employment is regulated. Drivers have been campaigning for protections such as fair account management, transparent rating systems and enhanced health and safety standards. With union certification now secured, drivers can negotiate a collective agreement that addresses these priorities.

“This is a defining moment for the labour movement in Canada,” said UFCW Canada president Shawn Haggerty in an official statement. “The certification of Uber drivers in Victoria shows that workers in every sector—even in the platform economy—can organize and win. These drivers are setting a national precedent, and UFCW Canada is committed to supporting them every step of the way as they work toward a strong, fair first agreement.”

 

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The UFCW has been actively supporting gig workers across British Columbia, collaborating with provincial authorities to establish minimum labour standards and workers’ compensation coverage for platform employees. Since signing a national agreement with Uber in 2022, UFCW has filed thousands of driver complaints to help restore deactivated accounts and resolve disputes.

Victoria’s certification marks a potential turning point for gig workers across Canada, challenging the traditional classification of these workers as independent contractors. The decision may influence ongoing debates around labour rights in the rapidly growing gig economy, where app-based platforms like Uber continue to disrupt established labour markets.

Patrick Johnson, president of UFCW Local 1518, highlighted the importance of this victory: “Victoria’s Uber drivers have opened the door for app-based workers in British Columbia,” he said in a statement. “We’re committed to having their back as they negotiate an agreement that honors their historic achievement and sets a new standard for fairness and respect in the digital economy.”

For business leaders and policymakers, the ruling signals a new era in labour relations—one where gig workers gain a stronger voice and a collective platform to advocate for fair working conditions. As the gig economy expands, companies will need to navigate evolving regulations and expectations around worker protections.

With this decision, British Columbia has positioned itself as a trailblazer in adapting labour laws to the realities of modern, app-driven workforces. The ripple effects could be felt nationally as other provinces watch closely and gig workers elsewhere seek similar recognition.