Workplace Relations and Safety Minister, Brooke van Velden, has today announced an extension of the availability of 90-day trial periods to all employers.
The Minister said extending 90-day trial periods to employers gives businesses the confidence to hire new people and increases workplace flexibility.
“Whether a business has two or 200 employees, bringing on any new employee costs time, it costs money and it is in the best interests of any business to find the right fit,” said Ms van Velden.
“The extension of 90-day trials also provides greater opportunities for employees. They allow employers to employ someone who might not tick all the boxes in terms of skills and experience but who has the right attitude, without the risk of a costly dismissal process.
“By extending 90-day trials to all businesses, not just those with fewer than 20 employees, we’re giving all businesses greater confidence to employ more New Zealanders.”
She said that by adopting ACT MP Todd Stephenson’s Member’s Bill on 90-day trials, the Government was able to progress quickly and provide certainty to businesses.
“The extension of 90-day trials will not affect other aspects of employment relations, such as the requirement to act in good faith, or worker protections regarding pay, conditions, leave, and health and safety.”
“It is also important to note that extending the availability of 90-day trials does not mean that all new employees will have trial conditions, rather it provides the option to include this provision in employment agreements,” said Ms van Velden.
She said the Bill will be passed under urgency before Christmas.
