Several workers earning slightly above the minimum wage say their salaries are still insufficient to cover essential expenses, as the cost of living continues to rise.

One father, who requested anonymity, told VBTC News that he earns VT30,000 every two weeks. Of that amount, VT15,000 goes towards house rent, VT6,000 is spent on basic food items such as rice and tinned goods, and the remaining VT9,000 is used to support his children’s schooling and daily needs, including bus fares of about VT3,000 every two weeks.

He said managing such limited income is extremely difficult.

Transparency advocate Douglas Tamara said many workers are seeking employment overseas due to low wages at home.

“On payday, most of the money goes back to repayments or commitments. Increasing salaries slightly would be fair. People in Vanuatu have sacrificed for a long time to help businesses grow. Many work overtime — some are paid for it, and some are not,” Tamara said.

VBTC News also spoke with other workers in private businesses in Port Vila, who did not wish to be named. They shared similar concerns, saying their wages are not enough to meet their families’ needs.

Minister of Internal Affairs Andrew Napuat said the minimum wage is required to be reviewed every two years. However, last year Government focused primarily on earthquake recovery efforts.

He said now that businesses are returning to normal operations, the Tripartite Labour Advisory Council can meet to consider the matter.

The Minister encouraged workers who feel they are being mistreated or not receiving proper entitlements to report concerns to the Labour Office.

“If you face challenges at work, especially if you feel there is mistreatment or that you are not being paid according to the minimum wage, I encourage you to come forward and report it to our Labour Office so we can address the issue,” he said.

In 2019, the minimum wage increased from VT200 to VT220 per hour. Four years later, in June 2023, it rose by 36% to reach VT300 per hour.

Under the Minimum Wage Act, the responsible Minister has the authority to amend the rate following consultation processes.