New Zealand has recently undergone significant changes to its employment law, with the aim of improving working conditions and protections for employees. One of the most notable changes is the increase of the minimum wage to $20 per hour as of April 1, 2021. This is part of the government's plan to gradually increase the minimum wage to $20.50 by 2024, and will provide a much-needed boost to many low-paid workers throughout the country. Additionally, the starting-out and training minimum wages have also increased to $16 per hour, making it easier for employers to provide valuable work experience and training opportunities to young and new employees.
Another significant change to employment law in New Zealand is the introduction of the Holidays Act 2003 (Parental Leave) Amendment Act 2020, which came into effect on July 1, 2020. The new law extends paid parental leave from 22 to 26 weeks, giving new parents more time to bond with their newborns and adjust to their new family roles. The changes also allow for greater flexibility, with parents being able to take leave in blocks of weeks, rather than having to take it all at once. Additionally, the amendment also allows for primary carers of children under the age of six to request flexible working arrangements, making it easier for parents to balance work and family responsibilities. Overall, these changes reflect the government's commitment to improving the lives of working families in New Zealand, and will have a positive impact on many employees and their families.
Employment Law changes through NZ
This article, posted on the Spinoff, was a great look back at the landscape of law in New Zealand.
