The Council of Trade Unions is seeking a significant rise in the minimum wage - it wants it increased from $11.25 to $15 an hour.
Secretary Carol Beaumont says it is impossible for people to make ends meet on the current minimum wage.
She says it is a big factor in why so many people are moving to Australia, where the average wage is 30% higher.
Beaumont says $15 is two thirds of the average wage which is an acceptable standard and she doesn't believe it will cost jobs.
Advertisement
CTU has made an extensive submission to the government on the
matter.
