The Living Wage Movement Aotearoa New Zealand is celebrating a victory, as the Government’s newly announced procurement rules retain the requirement for contracted workers to be paid at least the Living Wage rate.

This means cleaners, security guards, and catering workers will continue to be paid at least the Living Wage, currently $28.95 an hour.

Living Wage Movement National Chair, Muriel Tunoho, says the decision is a testament to the power of organised communities and workers standing together.

“This is a victory won by workers like Liam Shaw, Ministry of Health cleaner; Clive Miller, Ministry of Social Development security guard; and Mele Peaua, MBIE cleaner who stood up, told their stories, and organised their workplaces to call on the Government to keep the Living Wage in their procurement guidelines.”

“It’s also a win for the thousands of people across our movement in faith groups and community who made submissions, attended election forums, and called on the government to do the right thing and keep the living wage for these workers.

“This decision has meant that the coalition government has listened to the importance of the living wage and in ensuring its low paid contracted workers are treated with dignity and paid the Living Wage.

“The Living Wage Movement, an alliance of faith, union and community organisations, will keep standing with workers everywhere to win a Living Wage for all workers.”

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