Uber drivers are doing the hustle

More Australians are learning the art of the “side hustle,” taking on an extra job for money or experience.

Uber has dominated this trend and continues to grow in terms of reach and popularity. Why? Mostly because it’s so convenient and flexible for Gen X-ers and baby boomers, who have also embraced side hustles.

Where a traditional job might limit your hours and pay substantially, logging onto the Uber app makes it possible to drive flexibly whenever you want – and potentially earn more.

Alex Palacio is a dad-of-three who successfully juggles fatherhood, an acting career, and film studies while earning extra cash driving with Uber since 2015.

Alex always wanted to perform on stage and he got the break he needed by scoring an acting role at the Sydney Opera House after a chance meeting with a passenger in his car while driving with Uber.

He auditioned for the role of Kevin in “The Heights” — and landed it.

“I struck gold when I picked up an actor who told me to audition for a play. So, I took a chance and auditioned, and I got the gig!”

Alex’s fame even earnt him an invitation from Uber to the historic bell ringing at the New York Stock Exchange.

He believes having a side hustle helps to channel his creativity.

“Uber riders are fascinating characters with interesting stories that I can simply reinvent into my very own script,” he says.

More than 63,000 Australian driverpartners choose to access the Uber app to earn extra money to help pay the bills or support their family or top up their retirement savings. And in a recent survey, 78 per cent said they love the value of flexible work.

“As an actor, I have a lot of free time. That’s why Uber is perfect. I can drive in the morning and audition for shows in the afternoon. What more could I want?”