fbpx

What is ExerciseNZ – Stress Management Programme

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act, employers have an obligation to reduce work related harm amongst their staff.

This includes mental or physical ill health due to workplace stress.
As most people are aware, exercise and lifestyle changes can play a huge role in managing stress levels. Adopting an effective programme of exercise can result in a win/win for both employees and the business they work for.

Exercise New Zealand Stress Management Programme Endorsement requires exercise professionals to meet specific criteria which then allows them to offer their programme to businesses for a fee that is both tax deductible and not subject to Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT).  FBT however is payable on a gym memberships purchased by a business.

Stress Management for Employers
Exercise Businesses looking to become Endorsed

Supported by

 

 

 

 “IT IS ESTIMATED THAT 40% OF SICK DAYS IN NZ ARE DUE TO WORK RELATED MENTAL STRESS.”

HOW TO BENEFIT FROM THE STRESS MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME IF YOU ARE AN EMPLOYER

THE 3 STEP PROCESS IS AS FOLLOWS:

  1. Decide you want to contribute to the health and wellbeing of your employees.
  2. Select an endorsed provider to run the programme and sign up with them.
  3. Claim the costs as an FBT exempt business expense.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

These programmes will be provided by a variety of personal trainers, gyms and studios anywhere in New Zealand.  Exercise New Zealand have reviewed all programmes to make sure they meet the requirements confirmed by IRD that allow them to be not subject to FBT.

These programmes are listed here.

 

 

What will it cost? 

Each business can set its own rate for the programme, so you will need to discuss fees directly with the provider that you will be working with.

Is the programme a certain length?

No – each programme will offer programmes of varying length to suit the client.

What about Facility Memberships?

This FBT-exempted product does not include gym memberships. It only applies to a specific exercise-based product fulfilling the necessary criteria for stress management.  Some providers may wish to offer an ‘upgrade’ option to include a facility membership, but there are guidelines that must be followed, and the facility membership portion is SUBJECT TO FBT – if paid for by the business.