Minimum wage a step closer to the Living Wage

The Living Wage Movement Aotearoa New Zealand is pleased to see the Government announce an increase in the minimum wage by $1.20 to $17.70 per hour. This is a step closer to workers earning a Living Wage, $20.55, which is enough money to survive and participate in society.

The National Convenor of the Living Wage Movement, Annie Newman, says that the increase couldn’t come sooner.

“Workers in this country deserve to earn enough to live a decent life but hundreds of thousands do not.”

Annie says that the increase will be good for business and good for workers, families and communities.

“We know that workers on the lowest wages spend the highest proportion of their income in the local economy. This is great for local businesses.

“From April 2019, there will be a 14.9% ($2.85) difference between the minimum wage and the Living Wage. This compares with the current gap of nearly 22% ($4.05).

“It is clear that the Living Wage is the right standard for New Zealand workers and as more businesses step up to pay decent wages we will see communities transform.”

The Living Wage Movement now has more than 120 accredited Living Wage Employers, including Wellington City Council, AMP, Vector and numerous small and medium sized businesses.

“The time has come to turn our backs on being a low wage economy and create a kinder, more sustainable and more equitable society for future generations.”

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