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A union perspective on Brooke van Velden’s Employment Relations Amendment Bill – and what you can do about it. A new private member’s bill tabled by ACT MP Brooke van Velden is threatening to dismantle core protections for working people across New Zealand.
Dubbed the Employment Relations (Reshaping Terms of the Employment Agreement) Amendment Bill, it’s being pushed under the guise of "flexibility"—but make no mistake: this is a corporate wishlist masquerading as reform.
The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions (NZCTU) has rightly sounded the alarm, calling on all political parties to vote the bill down before it does irreparable damage to our employment relations system.
As a union representing front-line workers, community service providers, hospitality and care staff, and thousands of others working hard under already stretched conditions, we cannot let this bill pass quietly. Here's why it matters—and what you can do to help stop it.
🚨 What's in the Bill?
The proposed legislation:
Makes it harder for workers misclassified as contractors (like Uber drivers) to challenge their status and access minimum rights.
Undermines personal grievance protections, meaning if you're unjustifiably dismissed, your options to seek fairness through the courts would be gutted.
Removes the 30-day rule, which currently ensures new employees get the protection of collective agreements while they decide whether to join the union.
Promotes a "fire at will" culture and accelerates casualisation and job insecurity—especially in sectors already reeling from staffing shortages and cuts.
This is a direct attack on union strength, legal remedies, and job security for everyone—whether you’re on a casual contract or permanent full-time.
🧱 Why It’s So Dangerous
This isn’t just about one sector. This is a systemic attempt to strip rights from all working people, hand power to corporate employers, and discourage collective voice.
Let’s be clear:
It follows Uber’s lobbying playbook, aiming to protect exploitative business models that rely on misclassifying workers as “independent contractors.”
It undermines the legal independence of the Employment Relations Authority and the courts, tying their hands in favour of employer power.
It comes at a time when unemployment is rising, wages are stagnant, and workers are being asked to do more with less.
Instead of helping rebuild fairer work after COVID and recession, this bill sets the clock back decades.
🎙️ Has Government Consulted the Workers?
No. There’s been no genuine consultation with unions, workers, or communities most affected by this legislation. It’s another case of policymaking for corporate interests without democratic input.
For those of us in hospitality, youth services, care work, or creative industries, we already deal with insecure work and unfair dismissal risks daily. This bill makes those risks worse, removes legal protections, and erodes our ability to push back.
🛠️ What Can You Do? How to Have Your Say
If you’re a worker, union member, community ally, or just someone who believes in fairness—you can act. Here's how:
✅ 1. Submit Against the Bill
Once it reaches select committee, you’ll be able to make a submission. We’ll keep you updated with links and guides. Your voice matters.
✅ 2. Contact Your Local MP
Write, call, or visit your local MP. Tell them to vote against this bill. Ask them where they stand.
✅ 3. Talk About It at Work
Spread the word with co-workers. Many people won’t hear about this unless it’s raised in break rooms and team chats.
✅ 4. Join or Strengthen Your Union
This bill is a reminder that collective strength is our best defence. If you're not already a member—join. If you are—get active.
✅ 5. Share on Social Media
Use your platform. Use the hashtags:#StopTheERABill #FairWorkNZ #UnionStrong
✊ Our Message to Parliament
Workers deserve protection, not punishment.We deserve the right to challenge unfair treatment, not be silenced.We deserve a voice at work—and a say in laws that affect our lives.
This bill is radical, regressive, and out of step with the kind of society we’re trying to build. Aotearoa deserves better.
Let’s raise our voices and make sure Parliament hears us loud and clear.
NUPE – National Union of Public EmployeesStanding for fairness, dignity, and decent work.
📧 Contact us for templates, submission help, and MP engagement resources.
