Rushed law change risks deepening homelessness crisis for NZ women

The Pay Equity Amendment Bill has passed all stages in Parliament after being fast-tracked under urgency.

The legislation, which has sparked controversy, increases the burden of proof required to demonstrate historical undervaluation in pay equity claims. Critics argue that it will make it harder for women in female-dominated industries to pursue fair pay.

Coalition to End Women’s Homelessness Director, Victoria Crockford, calls this a disappointing development, particularly for the 57,000 homeless women in Aotearoa.

“The Pay Equity Amendment Bill will directly impact whether women have a safe and secure place to call home,” she says.

Research published by the Coalition in December 2024 highlighted financial insecurity as a key risk factor for women experiencing homelessness, with older women particularly affected.

“Due to pay inequity, women earn less over their lifetimes, and therefore have fewer resources to support themselves, all while living longer on average than men,” Victoria explains.

“By fast-tracking the law in time for the May Budget, the government should be prepared to spend more in the future on health and housing costs as women continue to struggle to afford the basics as they age.”

Victoria also points out that this is where the "system" should come in to support homeless women.

“We must focus on the root causes and the ripple effects,” she says.

“We understand that processes will recommence, and the Minister has committed to that. We hope this too will happen under urgency, because the need is indeed urgent.”

Half of New Zealand’s homeless population is made up of women. That’s 57,000 grandmothers, mothers, aunties, and sisters currently facing severe housing deprivation. In OECD countries, women typically make up 22% of people experiencing homelessness, on average. 

Image of Victoria Crockford available here
Media enquiries: Ellie.Campbell@CEWH.org