The minimum wage increases again, the tax on the richest too

In New Zealand, the government has adjusted two levels: the minimum wage and the tax rate for the richest. Measures that had to be taken, according to Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.

Indeed, they were part of the Labor Party’s election promises. But above all, these measures represent “real and long-awaited improvements to the support we provide to our most vulnerable,” she said according to the New Zealand media. Interest relayed by CNews.

175,000 people affected

The minimum wage will therefore drop from $ 18.90 to $ 20 as of April 1. This increase is expected to benefit nearly 175,000 New Zealanders. On top of that, the prime minister said a second increase would come in 2022.

“You won’t find a year when Labor governments haven’t changed the minimum wage,” said Jacinda Ardern. “It would be a change if you didn’t see a change in the minimum wage. Indeed, the Labor Party has increased the minimum wage every year since taking office in 2017.

” There is still a lot to do “

At the same time, the tax rate for people earning more than $ 180,000 (around 107,000 euros) will drop to 39%. This increase affects around 2% of New Zealand’s population.

Jacinda Ardern does not intend to stop there. “There is still a lot to do, including building more housing, improving our health system, investing in education, training and job opportunities,” said the Prime Minister who is in his second term.