• See Section 3 of the Code of Ethics or refer to the Complaints Process for Federations in the resources above.
• These set out the overall process of making a complaint and the options available for resolution. 
  

• You can make a complaint directly to us, or to NZF.
• Either option will be managed under the same process within the Code of Ethics. 
  

• Both anonymous and named complaints are valid but there are certain distinctions between the two types of complaints. An anonymous complaint may limit the steps NZF can take with the information provided.
• An anonymous complaint allows individuals to report concerns without fear of reprisal or retaliation, particularly in sensitive or high-stakes situations.
• In the context of natural justice, anonymous complaints can raise issues of fairness and due process. In most instances, individuals who have been complained about have a right to know the specific allegations against them and have the opportunity to respond to them. With a named complaint, the respondent is always aware of the identity of their accuser, and they are given the opportunity to address the accusations. Named complaints may carry more weight as the credibility of the complainant can be assessed.
  

• Parties to the proceedings may appeal a decision of the relevant Disciplinary and Ethics Committee, but only once and to the immediately next higher body. The grounds for an appeal are:
  • Natural Justice: that natural justice was denied. 
  • Power and Jurisdiction: that the decision make or decision making body acted outside of its powers and/or jurisdiction. 
  • New Evidence: that substantial evidence became available after the decision which is being appealed was made. 
  • Sanction or Penalty: that the sanction or penalty was excessive or inappriproate. 
    

When lodging an appeal, please use the Notice of Appeal template located in the resources above.