As secondary school students, we juggle rigorous academic demands, sports commitments, and leadership roles, all of which significantly limit the amount of time we can dedicate to work. Every dollar we earn is crucial. We are diligently saving for university to cover accommodation and course-related expenses, especially now that the final year of university is no longer fees-free. This proposed change would not only reward the hard work of students like us but also encourage us to gain valuable work experience while maintaining balance with our other commitments.

Currently, students and young people under the age of 18 who earn less than $15,000 per year are required to pay income tax. This policy affects many under-18s who work part-time alongside school obligations. Our hard-earned money often goes towards essentials, savings for tertiary education, buying a first vehicle, or slowly building financial independence. Removing this tax requirement would allow young individuals to retain more of their earnings, fostering financial responsibility and encouraging increased participation in the workforce.

Financial independence for young people is critical. By allowing us to keep all of what we earn, students can better support themselves and are likely to become more financially literate and responsible adults. Furthermore, this change would recognise and reward the dedication of young students who balance work with academic and extracurricular pursuits.

We propose the elimination of income tax for those under 18 earning less than $15,000 annually. This initiative would invigorate the young workforce, cultivate a more financially savvy generation, and alleviate some of the financial pressures that students face today. 

Under current New Zealand tax law, there is no general tax-free threshold. Every dollar earned through regular wages (PAYE) is taxed at the lowest bracket rate of 10.5% for anything under $15,600. If a person under 18 earns exactly $15,000, they currently pay $1,575 in income tax ($15,000 × 10.5%). Making this threshold tax-free means the government loses a maximum of $1,575 per working child. In reality, the vast majority of working under-18s earn far less than $15,000 annually due to school commitments. Most part-time teens only pay between $200 and $600 in tax per year, meaning the government loses very little per individual across the wider demographic

Join us in supporting this change for the betterment of young people across the nation. Sign this petition to urge policymakers to adopt this important reform, allowing us to focus more on education and less on financial strain. Your support can make a tangible difference in the lives of young individuals striving for success and independence.