NZCTU presents priority briefing to incoming government

The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions (NZCTU) has released a briefing to the incoming government outlining 16 priorities aimed at improving working conditions and economic justice. The NZCTU, representing over 370,000 members, urges the government to restore fair pay agreements and pay equity legislation within its first 100 days.

Key demands include the abolition of 90-day employment trials, the introduction of corporate manslaughter legislation, and the repeal of the Health and Safety at Work Amendment Act 2026 and the Employment Leave Act. The union also advocates for tax reform, specifically proposing a capital gains tax to address disparities where the wealthiest families pay significantly lower effective tax rates than average citizens.

NZCTU President Sandra Grey highlighted that incomes have failed to keep pace with the cost of living since 2021. The briefing cites economic data showing unemployment at an 11-year high and significant poverty rates among children and seniors.