The decision is a demonstration of the organising power of trade unions, charities, NGO's and the wider Living Wage movement. We should celebrate their victory and the lasting good it will achieve for thousands of households in New Zealand.

It’s clear that someone around the Cabinet Table could see that cutting the wages of some of the lowest paid workers in the country is not a way to build a more prosperous economy, and we should thank them. More of their voice is needed to prevent other harmful reform.

Removing the Living Wage protection in government contracts would likely cost the government additional money in higher welfare payments and other costs. The only beneficiaries of the proposal are the companies that would have been able to slash wages by up to $11,336 a year.

The living wage is set at a level that allows New Zealanders to live a decent life. Decent work and decent wages should be the hallmark of employment in New Zealand. The previous government recognised this by adding it to the guidelines in 2021 procurement.govt.nz/assets/procu...

“Paying the Living Wage on payroll means our cleaners can plan ahead, save, join KiwiSaver, take holidays with their families, and have paid sick days and maternity leave. They do not need to rely on government support. We are a force for change, and we want to inspire other SMEs to join….”

The Living Wage in Action - Why Employers Are Choosing to Lead with Values 3/3
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The Principal Partners Council are an advisory group to the Living Wage Governance Board. Each member is a champion of the Living Wage in their respective industries. They have a deep commitment to valuing and improving the lives of all workers. 2/3
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