Employment Law Update: What 2025 Holds for Employers

It’s a new year, and major reforms are on the horizon! In late 2024, the Coalition Government unveiled sweeping changes set to shake up New Zealand’s employment law landscape. These updates aren’t just policy tweaks, they’re set to reshape how businesses operate in 2025 and beyond. Join host Sanam as she unpacks these reforms in plain English and provides insights to help you prepare. What’s in this episode: Personal grievance reforms: stricter rules for serious misconduct, reduced remedies, and changes to reinstatement eligibility Proposed changes to restraints of trade The new minimum wage rates for adult, starting-out, and training wages from April 2025 What about the Holidays Act? Clearer definitions and simpler leave calculations If you’re an employer, HR professional, or business leader, now is the time to get ahead of the curve. From hiring and terminations to everyday workplace management, these reforms will impact every corner of your business. Stay informed, stay prepared, and make 2025 your most compliant year yet! Coming next week: A deep dive into the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) reforms and their impact on recruitment strategies in 2025. Craving more insights? Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE! Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights. Got questions? Send them our way, and Sanam will feature them in the next episode. Email your queries to [email protected]. Check out the Law Lenz website HERE.  Resources: More flexible dismissal process for high-income employees - The Beehive Removing rewards for poor employee behaviour - The Beehive Restraint of Trade Bill Minimum wage increase - Employment NZ Minister response to consultation on Holidays Act replacement - The Beehive Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.