Bar set too high for new work visas, says industry

Bar set too high for new work visas, says industry
Sectors such as hospitality and aged care say the new visa requirement will worsen an existing workforce crisis (Image: Getty Images)
Jem Traylen
Sectors including hospitality and aged care are voicing grave concerns over a new work visa rule which will require migrant workers to be paid at least the median wage.They say they are already experiencing a workforce crisis and want the government to create a transition plan for the new immigration settings.From July 4, most work visas will be replaced by the accredited employer work visa (AEWV) which will require applicants to be paid at or above the median wage of $27.76 per hour, almost 31% more than the minimum wage which of $21.20. On a...

More Economy

Weaker than expected jobs data won't move the rate cut dial
Economy

Weaker than expected jobs data won't move the rate cut dial

The March quarter jobs data was gloomier than expected.

Rebecca Howard 01 May 2024
Cautious lending keeps lid on default rates – Reserve Bank
Finance

Cautious lending keeps lid on default rates – Reserve Bank

Non-performing mortgages have overtaken Covid levels.

Jem Traylen 01 May 2024
Business confidence still falling
Economy

Business confidence still falling

Business confidence fell eight points to 15 in the latest ANZ NZ Business Outlook survey as cost pressures continue to bite. According to Westpac Bank senior economist Satish Ranchhod, a net 20% of firms reported their trading activity has declined over the past year. “That’s the...

Staff reporters 30 Apr 2024
Returning GST to councils would cover 'infrastructure cost increases' to councils
Economy

Returning GST to councils would cover 'infrastructure cost increases' to councils

Returning GST to councils would help councils out a lot, Infometrics says.

Dileepa Fonseka 30 Apr 2024