‘Set by independent authority’: MPs defend their pay and perks as government tightens belt

Ministers are defending taking pay rises and accommodation entitlements as the Government looks to slash spending across the public service.

MPs are set to receive a pay rise from July of about 2%

The base salary for our MPs will increase to $181,200, while Cabinet ministers will get $327,100, and the Prime Minister’s salary will jump to $520,500.

On top of their salaries, MPs also get a yearly expense allowance of $25,600 for the Prime Minister, $24,000 for the speaker and $19,300 for everyone else.

Those who live outside the capital can also claim an allowance for accommodation costs in Wellington.