Greens propose abolishing training wage for apprentices

The Green Party has pledged to abolish the training wage to ensure apprentices are paid the full minimum wage of $23.95 per hour. This would replace the current training wage of $19.16, which is set at 80% of the adult minimum wage. Co-leaders Chlöe Swarbrick and Marama Davidson announced the plan at a Remuera construction site.

The proposed policy includes a $2000 equipment grant for apprentices to cover tools, uniforms, and course materials. Employers who actively support apprentices through their qualifications would receive a $2000 completion bonus. The Greens also plan to invest $30 million annually in Māori and Pasifika-led training, including pastoral and learning support.

The policy is estimated to cost between $117 million and $117.35 million per year. The Greens argue that apprentice numbers have reached a 15-year low due to low pay and insecure work. Sandra Grey, president of the NZ Council of Trade Unions, supported the move but called for more ongoing mentoring and guidance.

Other political parties have proposed different approaches to the training wage. The ACT Party wants to reduce the training wage to 60% of the minimum wage for under 20-year-olds. Labour has proposed expanding the Apprenticeship Boost scheme back to two years.

How it developed

• Sun 18 Oct, 2:30pmThe NZ Council of Trade Unions president supported the plan but requested more investment in mentoring and guidance.

Where reports differ

• The estimated annual cost of the Green Party policy is cited as $117 million in one report and $117.35 million in others

Compiled from reports by 1News, Stuff, Otago Daily Times, NZ Herald and RNZ.