Legal Definition
‘domestic worker’ means an employee who performs domestic work in the home of his or her employer and includes—
- a gardener;
- a person employed by a household as driver of a motor vehicle; and
- a person who takes care of children, the aged, the sick, the frail or the disabled, but does not include a farm worker.
Definition in laymen’s terms
A ‘domestic worker’ is someone employed to carry out tasks within their employer’s home. This includes roles such as a gardener, a household driver, or someone who provides care for children, the elderly, the sick, the frail, or the disabled. However, it does not cover individuals working on farms.
What does this mean practically?
Practically, this means that if you work in a household performing tasks like gardening, driving, or caregiving, you are considered a domestic worker. This designation helps determine the rights and protections specific to domestic workers, excluding those employed in farm work.
Insights
Domestic workers are vital to many households, performing essential tasks and providing care. Recognising the specific roles and protections for domestic workers ensures that their rights are upheld and that they receive fair treatment and compensation.
Understanding this definition helps in navigating employment regulations and advocating for appropriate working conditions.
Also consider reading “Is my domestic worker legal” in one of our practical labour law insights.