Pay equity matters to everyone.

By Bronwyn Larkins, Te Pou Whirinaki

Pay Equity is important, not only to those who are covered by the claim, but for everyone. Currently TEU is working through the slow process of a pay equity claim for administration, clerical and library workers at the universities. The process is guided by the Equal Pay Act 1972 and uses the decision of the Christine Bartlet case, that allows for employer and employee groups to negotiate the pay equity settlement.

We have started with the University sector looking at Administrative and Clerical workers and Library Assistants and Library Service workers. These groups of workers are not only considered ‘feminised’ work but also has the highest percentage of women workers. We build this case based on the claims won by the DHB administrative and clerical workers and School Support claim.

Why is it taking so long?

Sadly, even though there are legislation and court cases to support us to fight for your right to be valued for the skills you have, we still must go through the process. It is usual for the process to be lengthy, with 5 years being the average time taken.

It is harder now because the Pay Equity Taskforce, that was put in place to support government agencies and others to navigate the Equal Pay Act to support pay equity bargaining, was disestablished in 2024. Some of the resources were sent to MBIE which made access harder for people doing this work.

But my work isn’t part of the claim, why does it matter to me?

For those who are covered by successful pay equity claims, the results can be clearly seen. There is an increase in their wages and often with back pay.

But even if you aren’t covered by them, these claims will indirectly provide benefit to you. One inspiring story is from the recently settled District Health Board claim for Administration and Clerical workers. With money in their pockets, a few workers purchased new cars. In one region the car yard sold more cars in a week than they ever had! Talk about stimulating the economy.

When worker’s wages increase, so does the economy. More income tax comes in to support education and hospitals. Workers’ increased wages lead to additional spending on groceries, movies, holidays, etc.

Ok, so what can I do?

If you are part of a claim, you should be aware that there is a strong cross union, cross motu pay equity campaign going on. We are asking all under the claim to fill in a Pay Equity Invoice (available on request) and return it to TEU.

If you aren’t part of a claim, talk to people about the claims and why we need to put pressure on the government to ensure that the process has the expertise to complete claims.

Hold a morning tea, test your knowledge of pay equity (quiz available on request).

We all need to pressure the government to agree to ensure that all claims can be paid.

Ask someone to join TEU! More members = more power.

For more information or to request any of the resources mentioned above, please email me.

TEU recognises that Pay Equity is discussed in binary language, this does not recognise the pay gaps that exist for trans, non-binary, and ethnic groups. Work continues to capture data and advocate for greater recognition for all.