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14 August 2024
2 minute read
The RSE scheme is intended to maximise benefits for Pacific workers and countries while also giving the horticulture and viticulture industries access to a reliable, productive and experienced labour force for ‘peak season’ labour demand.
Improvements announced by the Government today reflect requests from industry groups as well as the recommendations from a review of RSE policy carried out by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) in 2023.
RSE cap increase
The Government has also announced an increase to the RSE cap for the 2024 to 2025 season.
The cap on the number of workers is increasing to a total of 20,750. This is an increase of 1,250 from the 2023 to 2024 season cap which was 19,500.
Feedback from a survey of all RSE employers on the number of workers they would need in 2024/25 informed where the cap was set.
This increase will help meet industry projections for growth, particularly in wine and kiwifruit exports, and related plans to expand their operations. It also balances the labour needs of the industry and the availability of accommodation for workers.
Initial improvements
- Employers must pay RSE workers an average of 30 hours a week over 4 weeks.
- RSE workers will now be granted a visa that will allow them to leave and return to New Zealand during a season.
- RSE workers will no longer have to be screened for HIV.
- The pause on accommodation cost increases will be lifted and employers will be able to increase rents modestly.
- RSE workers will be able to undertake training and skills development not directly related to their role.
- There will be more flexibility for RSE workers to move between employers and regions.
- Timor-Leste will be included in the scheme.
- The requirement to pay RSE workers at least 10 percent above the minimum wage will only apply to experienced workers returning for their third and subsequent seasons.
Most of these changes will take effect from 2 September 2024. Further time will be needed to set up the infrastructure and processes on the ground to enable Timor-Leste’s participation.
RSE changes for the 2024/25 season
RSE Scheme revitalised and cap increased — Beehive website
