In Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada and America performers have standard contracts, which include minimum working conditions, and residuals on screen work. These contracts are negotiated between the performers’ unions such as British Equity and the Screen Actors’ Guild (SAG), and producers. These contracts give performers and agents certainty about the minimum expectations performers should have on any film, television or theatre job. Agents of course are free to negotiate terms which are better than the minimum negotiated between their union and producers. In New Zealand there are no such contracts. While there is a set of guidelines, known as “The Pink Book”, these are not binding on any producer and do not stand up to comparison with the minimum conditions performers receive in all other English speaking countries.

Should we have a standard contract in New Zealand?

Equity members are now calling for a standard contract with conditions of employment as good as those enjoyed by their peers in Australia, and based on the New Zealand market and financing arrangements. But we want to know what you think.

What might a standard contract in New Zealand include and deal with?

• The requirement that if you have a speaking part you must receive a cast credit;
• The circumstances in which you are provided with transport;
• The penalty rates for late night, early morning, Saturday. Sunday and public holiday work;
• The need to gain your consent before using your name or image in connection with any commercial goods; before revoicing your voice; before using behind-the-scenes footage;
• Your right to refuse to perform a hazardous action;
• The standard of green rooms and changing facilities you can expect in studios and on location;
• The need to gain your consent over appearing nude - and to guarantee that any footage that is not used in the final version of the production will be destroyed;
• The paying out of your fee, should your role be cancelled;
• The paying of residuals by the producer.

How are we going to get this?

It’s not going to be easy. However, we know that when a majority of performers get together and start asking for the same improvements across the industry we are more likely to get better conditions for all.

What is the next step?

Ring us and tell us what you think. We’re on Auckland (09) 360 1980, or you can email your New Zealand Actors’ Equity organiser Frances Walsh at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

The minute you get a job let us know. We can take you through what you need to consider before signing a contract. We can come and talk to you and your fellow cast members at a time and a place that’s convenient.

As well, encourage other performers to join their union and to attend Equity meetings so we can create a fair working environment for all.