3128 (2025). Hon Phil Twyford to the Minister of Immigration

3128 (2025). Hon Phil Twyford to the Minister of Immigration: Was the failure to consult Pacific governments on the changes to Recognised Seasonal Employer Visa the fault of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade?

Hon Erica Stanford: As stated in the House on 30 January, I was advised there was a miscommunication between officials that meant that Pacific governments were not informed of the changes to the RSE scheme prior to the public announcement. This was recognised, the appropriate apologies were offered, and expectations are clear that any future changes will be communicated in advance of any public announcement. I also note that I am advised that the previous Government did not consult with Pacific governments on the 2021 changes to the RSE scheme and only informed them approximately an hour in advance of the public announcement on the 2023 changes.