IB2017/14 Evolving Labour Mobility Relationships through Mutual Cultural Understandings

As a result of New Zealands Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme, cross-cultural encounters have transcended international boundaries, providing participants an understanding of each others significant cultural, economic and social needs and serving as a lesson for similar schemes in Australia. New relationships are produced from exchanges of Pacific seasonal workers with employers and local host communities in Australia and New Zealand. These interactions have been complex, involving both language and cultural differences. Although these relationships have strengthened partnerships between workers and their employers, there are still misconceptions. This In Brief examines common perceptions of employers about Pacific seasonal labour and suggests ways misconceptions can be overcome.