What are we campaigning for?
Our members working in care and support tell us their sector is in crisis.
Workers are leaving for better paid, less stressful work so they can provide for their families.
It’s vital that we retain skilled, experienced workers so our seniors, disabled, those with mental health issues and others have support to live with independence and dignity.
Care and support unions, E tū, NZNO, and PSA, want to see pay rates increased and updated to reflect the high cost of living and the value of this essential work.
Where are things at?
In 2017, more than 60,000 care and support workers achieved historic pay increases and improvements in conditions under the Care and Support Workers (Pay Equity) Settlement Act 2017.
This settlement expired on 1 July 2022, but the legislation was amended to see it continue.
However, under the amended legislation the Government has only offered a 3% increase in pay rates to workers over the next 18 months.
Your unions filed a pay equity claim on 1 July 2022 to raise rates. This process is expected to take 18 months.
What you can do now
Lobby your local MP
Write or meet with the MP in your electorate and explain why achieving pay equity is key to keeping workers in care and support.
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Care and support worker wellbeing during Covid-19
Nineteen care and support workers were trained as researchers to help contribute to AUT’s report on the wellbeing of care and support workers during the pandemic.
This report provides important insight into the state of the care and support sector today.