John, 



For the past six years, from the beginning of April people have felt better off.



It’s when workers get an increase in pay as the minimum wage rises, retired New Zealanders get a bump to their Superannuation, and those who are doing it toughest right now and relying on a main benefit – like sole parent, jobseeker or supported living – get a bit extra each week.  



Labour’s values are about ensuring everyone who works hard can get ahead – that wages rise regularly and lift people up. But if someone can’t work, or they need a hand finding a job, then they can continue to live with dignity while they get back on their feet.



That’s why we lifted the minimum wage by almost $7 an hour during our time in government. It’s why we made sure that when wages rise, so do people’s benefits – which the Children’s Commissioner said was the best thing a government could do to lift kids out of poverty.



And it’s why we chose to give more support to those who have the least, rather than those who already have enough.



This April things look a little different. The National Government has chosen to give $2.9 billion to landlords, while only lifting wages by two percent, which is well behind inflation.



They have chosen to reverse the change Labour made indexing benefits to wages so people will fall behind in real terms. Someone on jobseeker support will be $50 a week worse off by the end of the decade, while someone on a disability benefit will be $60 a week worse off. That’s between $2600 to $3120 less they’ll be getting a year by 2030.



Make no mistake, these decisions by National will make life a lot harder for those doing it the toughest.



National are also making it harder for people to access the support that’s already available. Those on jobseeker benefits are having to re-apply for support much more often.



All of these changes, alongside their plans to reduce carers’ access to disability support and refusing to commit the funding for the school lunch programme will see many people getting or saving less.



This April we’re seeing the stark difference between the choices Labour made, and the choices this National Government is making.



Labour helps everyone to get ahead, while National has chosen to help just a few.



Thanks,

Carmel









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Authorised by Rob Salmond, 187 Featherston St, Wellington.