500 signatures reached
To: Central Government, Political Parties
Where's the Work?
Te Aka Tauira – VUWSA represents the interests of all tauira at Victoria University of Wellington. Our mahi centres on the kaupapa “By Students, For Students”, encompassing a wide range of work within our university and wider community — from welfare and advocacy to academic representation and national campaigns that uplift and empower tauira. Where’s the Work? is an extension of this kaupapa, aiming to ensure every student has the chance to thrive during their studies and beyond.
In recent years, students have faced skyrocketing living costs, stagnant wages, and increasingly limited part-time job options. At the same time, more graduates are packing their bags and heading overseas to Australia, the UK, and beyond — not because they want to, but because they feel they have no choice. This was highlighted to us, as after consultation with students, availability of employment was the most identified concern among the options presented.
This petition is a direct challenge to central government. In past annual budgets graduate/intern opportunities in the public service have been slashed without consideration of their futures. Already, we've seen hundreds of roles discontinued, critical talent recruitment systems (such as the Government Legal Network) paralysed, and a record number of people leaving Aotearoa. We are simply being outbid for Kiwi talent, and rather than holding on with an iron grip, this government is actively letting go.
Our position is clear: It is shortsighted and irrational to force any graduate to look overseas for work; as such, this petition seeks the following:
Our position is clear: It is shortsighted and irrational to force any graduate to look overseas for work; as such, this petition seeks the following:
- Reinstatement of all "paused" graduate programmes.
- A clear directive to place emphasis on education-to-workforce transitions within publicly owned organisations.
- Expansion of graduate roles and internship opportunities, in line with the growing student population.
Why is this important?
The Where’s the Work? campaign highlights the growing urgency for increased local job availability and accessibility, both during and after studying. While there may be work out there, it is often unsuitable or out of reach for students managing demanding study schedules and financial pressures. Students need flexible, fairly paid employment that complements — not competes with — their education. These roles are crucial to sustaining themselves while pursuing their degrees and, critically, retaining & growing the tertiary-educated workforce.
VUWSA believes that if Aotearoa is serious about retaining its talent and revitalizing its communities, then we must invest in our young people — not only with education, but with real pathways to employment. Where’s the Work? is a campaign grounded in the belief that when students succeed, we all benefit.
The campaign also aims to champion the mutual value of stronger partnerships between local businesses and students. Students bring fresh ideas, innovation, and energy to the workforce. In turn, they gain practical skills, income, and a sense of belonging in the communities they live and study in. By fostering a reciprocal relationship between students and employers, we’re not just supporting individuals — we’re enriching our city’s social and economic fabric.
This is a call for employers, policymakers, and universities to step up — to support tauira in tangible ways, to value their contribution, and to build a future where they don’t just survive here but thrive here.
How it will be delivered
This petition will be delivered at Wellington Airport to representatives from the loyal opposition.