VP Issues Report – June 2025

Immediate Action on Pay Equity – Submissions due July 2025Following the government’s abrupt cancellation of all pay equity claims, the Issues Task Force rapidly responded with media releases, protest action, and strategy meetings. The fight continues as BPW NZ remains vocal and visible in support of equity and justice for women.

In response to the government's move, the People Select Committee has been formed by former women MPs to hear directly from the public. BPW NZ will be making a submission and urges members and affiliates to do the same.

Committee Members Include: Dame Marilyn Waring (Chair), Jackie Blue, Jo Hayes, Belinda Vernon, Ria Bond, Hon Lianne Dalziel, Hon Steve Chadwick, Hon Nanaia Mahuta, Lynne Pillay, and Dr Sue Bradford.

Make your submission here 

CERD Submission – Commission on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination – Submission Due July 2025BPW NZ is preparing a submission for the 23rd & 24th UN CERD Periodic Review. Issues Taskforce is currently writing a submission to CERD for the 23rd and 24th Periodic Review for New Zealand.  This review refers to New Zealand’s upcoming appearance before the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) to report on its compliance with the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.

While we recognise New Zealand’s commitment to CERD since 1972, we are concerned about entrenched racial disparities affecting women, especially in employment, health, justice, and violence prevention sectors. These issues disproportionately impact Māori, Pasifika, Asian, and migrant women.

Regulatory Standards Bill – Submission Due 23 June The proposed Bill risks undermining gender equity by focusing solely on formal equality. It may weaken pay equity laws and professional protections, particularly in female-dominated fields like healthcare. Māori women may face compounded impacts due to Treaty and gender intersections. BPW NZ is finalising a submission and continues to raise concerns about the exclusion of women from meaningful consultation in the legislative process.

Stay Informed. Stay Active. Have Your Say. Now is the time to speak out—on pay equity, racial justice, and legislation that impacts women's lives. BPW NZ encourages every member and organisation to take action and be heard.

Nga mihi

Sherryll Markie-Brookes

 VP Issues BPWNZ