The new legislation is described as more "people-focused"
New Zealand has introduced a new legislation that seeks to enhance protection for whistleblowers in the workplace.
Under the Protected Disclosures (Protection of Whistleblowers) Act 2022, disclosures on an organisation's wrongdoings will be easier while whistleblowers will receive increased protection.
These whistleblowers, and those who speak up about wrongdoings, will receive clearer protection from the government, according to a media release, and ensure the confidentiality about who made the disclosure.
These employees will also be granted immunity from disciplinary action for speaking up and will be protected from retaliation from their employers through the Employment Relations Act 2000 and the Human Rights Act 1993.
"Another key improvement to the Act means a person, from any organisation or business, can make a protected disclosure direct to an appropriate authority at any time – instead of needing to disclose to their employer first," said Public Service Minister Chris Hipkins in a statement.
In addition, the legislation also extends and clarifies the grounds where protected disclosures can be made to cover "wrongdoing in, or by, any organisation, including small businesses, government agencies, and non-government associations."
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"One of New Zealand's strengths is the high regard in which New Zealand Government and business organisations are held for their honesty and integrity," said Hipkins.
"It's vital that employees and workers can freely speak up when they have concerns about ethics, risks, financial impropriety and safety in the workplace – without the fear of recrimination."
The Protected Disclosures (Protection of Whistleblowers) Act 2022 replaces the Protected Disclosures Act 2000, according to Hipkins, describing the new legislation as "more people-focused" and makes the rules more accessible and understandable.
It will commence in July, said the minister, with the government to build awareness on the new legislation ahead of its implemented.
"We will build awareness of the new legislation so that organisations know what they need to do, and people can better understand the protections available and feel safer raising their concerns when they do see something seriously wrong in their workplace," Hipkins said.
