New Brunswick’s average weekly earnings grew 3.7% in 2024, surpassing the provincial government’s 3% annual target, according to data released with Premier Susan Holt’s state of the province address on Jan. 29.
The wage growth figure, which includes regular wages, salaries, overtime pay, commissions, bonuses and paid absences, exceeded the government’s target for 2025 through 2028. Pre-pandemic average growth between 2014 and 2019 was 2.5%, while average growth between 2019 and 2023 was 4.1%, according to Statistics Canada.
However, the province missed its target for youth engagement in education, employment or training. The 2025 result was 81.7%, falling short of the 85.1% target. The government aims to reach 86.9% by 2028.
Immigration and workforce priorities
The provincial government negotiated an increased immigration allocation with the federal government. New Brunswick will receive 4,250 permanent resident nominations this year, an increase of 1,500 from the figure announced in February 2025.
The government said it plans to focus immigration pathways on critical labour needs including health care, building trades and education.
“We know that health care and the economy are top of mind for New Brunswickers,” said Holt. “While we are seeing progress in New Brunswickers’ ability to access care within five days, there is much more to be done on attachment to primary care.”
Pay equity and credential recognition
The province committed to phase in pay equity in the private and care sectors using a model similar to Quebec and Ontario. The government also said it will review and simplify the foreign credential recognition process.
Holt addressed economic challenges ahead of the upcoming budget. “It’s no secret that we are facing major economic headwinds – especially in a tariff environment,” she said. “But there are also many growth opportunities at our fingertips, with our natural and human resources.”
Labour mobility and trade
The government introduced legislation to support interprovincial labour mobility and is working to remove trade and credential barriers between provinces. The province also committed to support unemployed and underemployed workers to upskill the labour force.
The government identified investment priorities in energy, technology, agriculture, fisheries and manufacturing sectors. It also announced a partnership with Bell Canada on Sept. 28, 2025, to improve cellular coverage in rural areas.
On May 9, 2025, the government introduced legislation affirming recognition and fair compensation for professional artists in New Brunswick.
