New Zealand’s Wage Theft Bill - Could You Be a Criminal?

Wage theft has become a major topic of debate, especially with Australia recently criminalising intentional underpayments. The conversation has recently resurfaced in New Zealand and it seems we may be following suit.

In this episode, we explore New Zealand’s Wage Theft Bill, officially known as the Crimes (Theft by Employer) Amendment Bill. This proposed law aims to make it a criminal offense for employers to intentionally withhold wages, salaries, or entitlements. But what does that actually mean in practice?

Join host, Sanam, as she breaks down:

• The current laws and penalties relating to unpaid wages
• Why the Wage Theft Bill was introduced
• Employer obligations if the Bill becomes law
• The challenge of proving intent in wage theft cases
• The political debate surrounding the Bill and its impact on businesses

With hundreds of wage arrear cases over the past five years, the question is whether this Bill is necessary, or whether this is an unnecessary burden on employers?

If you want to know what this means for you and your business, then tune in for a deep dive into wage theft.

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Resources:

• Crimes (Theft by Employer) Amendment Bill
• Zhang v Panda Restaurant Ltd [2024] - Employment NZ
• Wage Theft Bill Explanatory Note - Parliament NZ
• Labour’s Wage Theft Bill Gets Support from NZ First - The Post

Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.