Immigration Minister, Iain Lees-Galloway announced proposed changes to how migrant workers are paid. The changes suggest that migrant workers be paid at least the New Zealand median wage; some business owners believe that there is a chance that this could drive them out of business.
Lees-Galloway believes that there is not enough regulation and policing of migrant workers. “To address these issues, the Government is proposing a set of reforms for employer-assisted temporary work visas to simplify the system and make it easier for business and regions to get the skilled workers they need to thrive,” he said.
What this would mean for businesses is a) higher wages, and b) careful monitoring to ensure that procedures are followed. Companies would have to show that local wages are being supported and that migrant workers are receiving the conditions laid out.
Although migrant workers would be essentially getting a pay rise, there is concern that smaller businesses, especially places like restaurants, will not be able to keep up with the increased wages.
