Question: What is the Labour-hire Workers Network?
Answer: The Labour-hire Workers Network is a pro-worker response to demands for regulation of New Zealand’s labour-hire industry. We offer a free, confidential networking system and provide worker-focused information, access to advocates, and a voice for marginalised workers. We facilitate workers organising for a better life.
Question: Do I have to be a FIRST Union member to join?
Answer: No, all labour-hire workers are welcome to join. There are no fees.
Question: How can the Labour-hire Workers Network help me?
Answer: We can empower you and your fellow workers. You will learn how labour-hire workers can organise to improve their working conditions. We facilitate collaboration and provide worker-focused information and resources.
Question: Why is there a need for change?
Answer: Increased casualisation, under-employment, and zero-hour triangular employment arrangements have driven down workers’ living standards. Agency temp workers are earning minimum wage while being taxed twice; once by the Government and once by the labour-hire agency. Insecure work leads to insecure lives and impacts negatively on workers’ families; the all-too-familiar price of unregulated flexibility. Labour-hire workers are often in safety-sensitive workplaces, operating heavy machinery in shared spaces. We believe all workers are entitled to safe, secure and dignified work.
Question: How do I join?
Answer: Click here and fill in the online form.
Question: What will you do with my personal information if I join?
Answer: We will not release your personal information to any Government agency or employer. Your email and/or address may be used for periodic communications about relevant issues and events.
Question: Is the Labour-hire Workers Network a union?
Answer: No, but we may be able to help you organise to form a union in your workplace. We also do not provide the free legal services that union members receive.
