Business & Human Rights Resource Centre invited the company to respond to claims of labour rights abuses, in particular, reliance on insecure casual employment arrangements, unsustainable pressure to meet performance targets and inadequate opportunity to effectively bargain for improved pay and working conditions.

An Amazon spokesperson responded:

"The claims made in a recent article about Amazon operations in Australia are not an accurate portrayal of our building. The article you refer to is intentionally sensational in its reporting and is demeaning to the hard working dedicated people who work at Amazon fulfilment centres and do a great job. We investigate any incidents to find out the facts – if there is an example of the allegations happening in Australia we want to know. We were not provided any information to look into any allegations despite repeated requests for details from the journalist.

We investigate any incidents to find out the facts – if there is an example of the allegations happening in Australia we want to know. We were not provided any information to look into any allegations despite repeated requests for details from the journalist.

As a new business in Australia, less than a year old, we have a mixture of permanent and agency staff at our two fulfilment centres to enable us to move quickly, access talent and manage variations in customer demand. Ensuring the safety of associates is our number one priority.

As with nearly all companies, we expect a certain level of performance from our associates and we continue to set productivity targets objectively, based on previous performance levels achieved by our workforce. Associate performance is measured and evaluated over a long time. This is a physically demanding job and this fact is made clear when associates join so they understand the process and requirements. Our labour hire agency does not cancel shifts if associates don’t meet rates.

We encourage associates to carry a water bottle with them and most do. Water coolers are available throughout the fulfilment centre (and breakroom) and are replenished during the day. Posters are throughout the fulfilment centre reminding everyone of the importance of keeping hydrated. Amazon ensures all of its associates have easy access to toilet facilities which are just a short walk from where they are working. Associates are allowed to use the toilet whenever needed. We do not monitor toilet breaks and factor appropriate breaks such as these into daily planning."