Protected Disclosures and Whistleblowers in New Zealand: A Guide for Employers

What Is a Protected Disclosure?

A protected disclosure occurs when an employee reports serious wrongdoing within an organisation. The disclosure may be made internally to the employer or to an appropriate external authority in certain circumstances.

Serious wrongdoing may include:

• unlawful activity
• misuse of public funds
• corruption or fraud
• serious health and safety risks
• conduct that creates a serious risk to the public

The purpose of protected disclosure legislation is to encourage individuals to report wrongdoing and to ensure that organisations respond appropriately.

Responding to Whistleblower Complaints

Employers should take whistleblower complaints seriously and ensure that disclosures are handled appropriately.

Important steps may include:

• maintaining confidentiality where possible
• protecting the person making the disclosure
• assessing whether a formal investigation is required
• documenting the investigation process and findings

Handling disclosures carefully helps maintain trust within the organisation and ensures that concerns about wrongdoing are addressed appropriately.

Independent Workplace Investigators

In some situations organisations may choose to engage an independent investigator to conduct workplace investigations involving protected disclosures.

Independent investigators can help ensure that the investigation process is impartial, particularly where the allegations involve senior staff or sensitive organisational issues.

Whistleblower Investigations Across New Zealand

Synergy Workplace Investigations provides independent investigation services to organisations throughout New Zealand, including Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and regional areas.

Our experienced investigators assist organisations to examine whistleblower complaints through fair, well-documented and professionally conducted workplace investigations.