An employer's perspective of the living wage in Fiji, Tonga and Marshall Islands : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Business Studies in Management at Massey University, Albany, New Zealand

Abstract

The costs of living are increasing every day and people are struggling to support themselves and their families. This study explores the employer’s perspectives of a living wage in Fiji, Tonga and the Marshall Islands. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 participants. Analysis of the responses showed that employers had never heard of a living wage. Barriers to introducing a living wage include limited jobs, financial pressure to pay cultural donations and no work ethic. Based on these results we concluded that financial literacy is required to educate people on how to manage their money and budget; an analysis of skills shortages is required and the need to strengthen economy by strengthening productivity. This study is important as it seeks to expand the living wage research and provide an understanding of employer’s perspective of the LW. The employers view is important as employers determine who and what to pay their employees. This research will aid in understanding and addressing employer concerns with implementing a LW in the workplace