Given the active government we have it is quite easy to forget announcements made over the last year or so, but today is the day that a number of key government initiatves become reality. You can read all about it here.  From cutting company tax and introducing the R and D tax credit, to increases for beneficiaries and seniors the announcements today will have a positive impact on all parts of society. For me the ninth increase to the minimum wage represents one of Labour’s proudest achievements.  Under National the minimum wage failed to keep up with inflation.  Many National MPs peddled the belief that increasing the minimum wage would cause massive damage to the economy.  The only increase they did agree to came as a result of their coalition with New Zealand First.  This approach penalised many of the most vulnerable workers.Under Labour the increases have been regular and steady.  What makes today’s announcement special is the change to make 16 and 17 year olds eligible for $12/hr after they have completed three months or 200 hours work.  This is of course the result of the compromise that emerged from Sue Bradford’s Private Members Bill. All in all a good day.