Most Kiwis support state sector living wage in new poll

New polling shows strong public support for the Government to ensure workers across the state sector are paid the Living Wage, with 73% of New Zealanders backing the policy.

Importantly, support for a state sector Living Wage crosses political lines, with voters from all major parties showing strong levels of support. The polling demonstrates that fair pay is not a fringe issue—it is something New Zealanders broadly believe should be a priority for our public services and the people who keep them running.

From cleaners and security guards to administration and support staff, thousands of people contribute to the delivery of public services. Paying the Living Wage recognises the essential work they do and helps ensure that a full day's work provides enough for people and their whānau to live with dignity.

The results also send a clear message to political leaders: New Zealanders want the Government to lead by example. As one of the country's largest employers and purchasers of services, the state has significant power to lift wages and improve working lives.

The Living Wage movement is calling on political parties to listen to the public and commit to ensuring that workers delivering public services are paid a wage they can live on.

A Living Wage is about more than a pay packet. It means less pressure on household budgets, greater security for whānau, and workers having the opportunity to participate fully in their communities.

With such strong support across the political spectrum, the message from New Zealanders is clear: if the Government values the people who deliver public services, it should value them enough to pay a Living Wage.

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