Keep pushing for wage rises, says union

The Council of Trade Unions is urging workers to continue to push for wage rises above the rate of inflation.

The latest Quarterly Employment Survey shows a four per cent increase in full time jobs since the June quarter last year and an average wage rise of 4.4 per cent.

But CTU economist Peter Conway says rising costs are hitting workers hard with higher transport, electricity and housing costs and staff must push for decent wage rises to keep pace. He says four per cent inflation will be around for a while and he believes there can be wage increases above that level on sustainable basis paid for out of profits. Mr Conway says although the economy is slowing, productivity has increased and profit levels are holding up.

He says there is a need for regular wage rises above the rate of inflation to catch up with wages in Australia, which are significantly ahead of New Zealand.

- NEWSTALK ZB