Flexi-wage, a program designed to assist employers in hiring staff and equipping them with the necessary skills for the job. With Flexi-wage, employers receive a wage contribution while employees benefit from training and ongoing support.

Who is Eligible?

Employers may qualify for Flexi-wage for individuals they hire under the following conditions:

• The employee meets the criteria outlined in the Flexi-wage job seeker information.
• The role is either ongoing beyond the subsidy period or for a fixed-term project benefiting the community or environment.
• The employer pays at least the adult minimum wage for the job.
• No employees have been dismissed to create the available position.

Work and Income encourages employers to contact them regarding Flexi-wage before considering redundancies. Support may be available to upskill employees for alternative roles.

What You Can Receive

Flexi-wage offers a wage contribution based on the level of support needed by the employee:

• $5,638.68 (GST Inclusive) over 24 weeks, or
• $11,277.36 (GST Inclusive) over 36 weeks. Additional training and ongoing support are available as needed, particularly for individuals with complex or specific needs.

For projects benefiting the community or environment, employers may be eligible for Flexi-wage – Project in the Community.

The Flexi-wage Process

Employers can enlist their assistance in finding suitable staff or discuss Flexi-wage eligibility for existing employees. It is essential to contact them before the employee commences work to ensure eligibility.

Please note that contacting them after the employee has begun work may affect eligibility. Work and Income will assess both the employer’s business and the individual’s eligibility for Flexi-wage. Upon confirmation of eligibility, they will discuss the wage contribution amount, duration, and any necessary training and support.

A contract outlining these details will be drafted and emailed to the employer for review. To initiate Flexi-wage, the employer must complete and return the contract along with proof of the bank account number.

What Happens Next

Throughout the Flexi-wage period, they will maintain regular contact to monitor progress. Employers will receive claim forms every four weeks, which must be completed and submitted to them for processing.

To Learn More

For employers already engaged in hiring with Work & Income, please inquire about Flexi-wage – https://www.workandincome.govt.nz/employers/subsidies-training-and-other-help/flexi-wage.html