25 April 2001 Media Statement
Work and Income briefing Qantas NZ staff on assistance
Social Services and Employment Minister Steve Maharey said today he had asked Work and Income to ensure former Qantas
New Zealand staff and other affected employees are aware of the assistance available to them from the Department.
People whose jobs have been affected by the closure of the airline can apply for a range of income assistance from DWI,
including the Community Wage and other emergency financial assistance. Mr Maharey said DWI regional staff had been in
contact with the unions representing affected staff and meetings are taking place over the next few days. The Department
has also been in contact with Qantas New Zealand's receiver. Staff of other companies allied to the collapsed airline
who have lost their jobs could also seek assistance from the Department, he said.
Mr Maharey said it was important that individuals affected by the closure of the airline made an appointment with their
local DWI office so their individual circumstances could be asssessed.
"I have asked DWI to work with former Qantas New Zealand staff so that they are informed about the range of income
support and other services the Department can provide.
"The level of support available will depend on individual circumstances so it is important DWI case workers sit down
individually with all those seeking assistance. The Department will also need to know the composition of each former
employee's final pay and it has been in contact with the Receiver to inform him of this requirement.
"Across the country DWI staff have also been in contact with the relevant unions. Each region is determining what
additional action they will take according to local need. For example, DWI staff attended a meeting in Wellington today
with affected staff," Steve Maharey said.
Mr Maharey encouraged those affected to contact the Department and make an appointment to see a case worker on 0800 559
009. The Call Centre and DWI Service Centres are closed on Anzac Day, but will reopen on Thursday 26 April.
ENDS