Median income down 7.6%

Stuff reports:

Covid-19 has contributed to median incomes falling for the first time since records began in 1998, Stats NZ says.

Stats NZ labour market statistics for income in the June quarter showed median weekly incomes were lower in the June 2020 quarter than they were a year ago, down 7.6 per cent to $652 a week.

This is why it is so appalling that Councils are increasing rates, when incomes are falling.

It also shows that what we really need from the Government is to lift after tax incomes or lower the cost of living. One way would be to temporarily cut the rate of GST, as this would benefit every household.