Other Legislation

Legislation

Defence Act 1990

The Defence Act 1990 provides for armed forces to be raised and maintained for:

  • The defence of New Zealand and the protection of its interests, whether in New Zealand or elsewhere;
  • The contribution of forces under collective agreement;
  • The contribution of forces to the United Nations or other organisations or states for operations in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter;
  • The provision of public service or assistance to the civil power in time of emergency, either in New Zealand or elsewhere.

The Act established the Ministry of Defence, a separate civilian agency that provides advice to the Government on defence matters.

Armed Forces Discipline Act 1971

The Armed Forces Discipline Act 1971(external link) provides for discipline and the administration of justice within New Zealand’s armed forces. The Act sets out who is subject to military discipline, the jurisdiction of the military justice system, and defines offences under military law. Civil offences set forth in other legislation are punishable under the Act (s 74), eg offences under the Crimes Act. The Act defines the composition and jurisdiction of courts-martial, and the applicable procedures for the investigation of cases, the conduct of trials and the punishment of offenders.

The Protected Disclosures (Protection of Whistleblowers) Act 2022

The Act aims to facilitate disclosure and investigation of serious wrongdoing in the workplace, and protect employees and other workers who raise these concerns. More information is provided on the protected disclosures page.