Clayton Mitchell New Zealand First MP

Last week, the Coalition Government announced a new temporary work visa process that will actively prioritise Kiwis and the regions.

Looking for labour abroad should never be treated as the first option. We need to focus on training and developing the skills of New Zealanders.

The new system will introduce more requirements, and incentives for businesses to employ and train New Zealanders. It also includes strengthening the labour market test for lower-paid workers and ensuring there is more planning for future workforce needs. These changes will be key in making sure New Zealanders are employed wherever possible.

We do have critical skills shortages, in particular in the regions, due to years of poor workforce planning by the National Government. In these areas with labour shortages, the reality is sometimes employers do need to look overseas to fill roles. The new temporary work visa system will streamline this process for them and mean that those who cannot fill positions through local labour will get the workers they need to keep their business going.

Even when a genuine skill shortage is identified in a region and foreign workers are recruited, there will still be regular labour market testing to check whether availability of New Zealanders in the area has increased. Regional Skills Leadership Groups will be involved to ensure the best utilisation of the local labour market.

In government, New Zealand First is standing up for New Zealand workers, and the regions, while building a productive and sustainable economy.