Consultation is underway for changes across the NZDF civilian workforce, and RNZ understands a question now hangs over the roles of the team specialising in preventing and responding to sexual offences.
Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
In a time where the future of Defence Force’s sexual assault prevention team is in question, armed forces staff working tirelessly to curb harmful sexual behavior in their ranks could potentially face the harsh reality of losing their jobs. This unsettling development comes as a result of a Defence Force cost-cutting exercise that has sparked concerns about the continuity of vital services within the military.
### Uncertain Future for SAPRA Team
At the heart of this dilemma lies the Sexual Assault Prevention Response Advisor (SAPRA) team within the NZDF, often referred to as “frontline subject matter experts” dedicated to preventing and addressing instances of rape, sexual assault, and sexual harassment within the military. Established under Operation Respect in 2016, these specialized personnel have played a crucial role in fostering a safe and respectful environment within the armed forces.
Despite the Defence Force’s unwavering commitment to eradicating harmful sexual behavior among its members, recent developments have put the entire SAPRA team on notice. Reports indicate that these essential team members were informed last week about the possibility of being made redundant, signaling an imminent period of consultation and potential reorganization within the NZDF.
An NZDF spokesperson revealed that the Defence Force is set to embark on a consultation process with its civilian workforce and unions to discuss “proposals for change across its civilian workforce” starting on Thursday, 20 March. While the organization remains steadfast in its mission to prevent harmful sexual behavior and provide support to affected NZDF members, the looming uncertainty surrounding the fate of the SAPRA team casts a shadow of doubt over the future of sexual violence expertise within the military.
### Implications of Redundancies
Should the SAPRA team face redundancy, concerns have been raised about the void it would create in terms of sexual violence expertise within the NZDF. This potential move also runs counter to a 2023 recommendation from the Office of the Auditor General, which emphasized the need for an enhanced resource allocation and a SAPRA presence at every camp or base to bolster the NZDF’s efforts in tackling and preventing harmful sexual behavior.
Operation Respect, initiated in 2016 as a comprehensive strategy to combat inappropriate sexual behavior, discrimination, harassment, and bullying within the Defence Force, has been under scrutiny following a 2020 independent review that highlighted shortcomings in addressing harmful behaviors despite several years of implementation. As the NZDF grapples with financial constraints, including a reported $360 million deficit and voluntary redundancies among civilian staff, the prospect of additional cuts within the civilian workforce raises concerns about the organization’s ability to maintain essential services and support mechanisms.
### Advocacy for Sustained Support
Fleur Fitzsimons, the national secretary of the Public Service Association, underscored the critical importance of retaining and expanding Operation Respect within the NZDF to uphold a safe and inclusive environment for all personnel. Emphasizing that sexual assault prevention work within the Defence Force has been instrumental in effecting positive change, she stressed the necessity of preserving and enhancing these initiatives to address prevalent issues of bullying, sexual assault, and harassment.
Amid calls for increased transparency from the government regarding defense funding and expenditure, Fitzsimons emphasized the urgency of providing adequate resources to support the NZDF in navigating complex global security challenges. With the prime minister urged to prioritize funding over cuts, the ongoing dialogue surrounding the future of the SAPRA team serves as a poignant reminder of the critical role played by frontline subject matter experts in safeguarding the well-being of military personnel.
As the consultation process unfolds and decisions regarding the fate of the SAPRA team are deliberated, stakeholders and advocates alike remain hopeful for a resolution that upholds the principles of safety, inclusivity, and accountability within the Defence Force. In a climate of uncertainty and change, the resilience and dedication of those working to combat harmful sexual behavior within the military stand as a testament to the enduring commitment to fostering a culture of respect and integrity.