Op RESPECT

Hōtaka whakaute

Operation RESPECT was launched in March 2016 by the Chief of the Defence Force as a comprehensive strategy designed to eradicate unacceptable and unwanted behaviours from the NZDF.

Op RESPECT is the NZDF's long term commitment to ensure our people can do their duties free from harmful sexual behaviour. But it's evolved to now also include bullying, harassment and discrimination. Op RESPECT is a culture change programme that continues to focus on creating a safe, respectful and inclusive work environment for all NZDF personnel. 

The Op RESPECT Programme Lead is Jessica Venn and the Military Lead is Warrant Officer Melaine Dixon, both of whom work within the Directorate of Safety and who are supported by other teams across NZDF.

There are a number of initiatives underway across the NZDF geared towards making workplaces safer and more effective, including physical improvements to living quarters and review and enhancement of policies and practices relating to prevention of and response to harmful behaviours. There is also culture work underway in each of the Single Services, and ongoing programmes of work in Diversity and Inclusion contributing to these same outcomes. 

Where to get help

If you need any support to help you with a situation related to harmful behaviour, either recent or historic, please contact any of the following support services:

• Sexual assault prevention and response advisors 
• NZDF4U wellbeing support 
• Chaplains
• Social workers
• Anti-harassment Advisors 

External support services 

• Safe to Talk - A free and confidential 24/7 sexual harm helpline operated by trained specialists. Call 0800 044 334, SMS 4334 or email support@safetotalk.nz or chat with someone online using webchat. An interpreter service is available in 44 languages. 
• LifeLine - Available at 0800 LIFELINE (0800 543 354) or send a text to HELP (4356) for free, 24/7, confidential support service.