NZDF welcomes Supreme Court decision on readiness requirements

The Supreme Court’s decision represents a significant affirmation of Chief of Defence Force’s (CDF) ability to make important decisions relating to the command of the armed forces - in this case decisions on individual readiness requirements for military personnel. These decisions are essential for ​the New Zealand Defence Force to remain a combat-ready and resilient armed force keeping New Zealand safe and secure. 

The Supreme Court case stemmed from the COVID-19 vaccination requirement that CDF first required of all members of the Armed Forces of New Zealand in March 2021 as part of their individual readiness requirements for deployment.

The Supreme Court said the CDF was appointed under the Defence Act to lead the NZDF and was likely to be in a much better position than the court to evaluate the relevant considerations of orders relating to operational effectiveness and military discipline.

The NZDF continually reviews and determines appropriate baseline medical readiness criteria for personnel including required vaccines in order to protect personnel and enable them to carry out the duties required of them. 

Like a number of other vaccines, the COVID-19 vaccine remains part of the baseline vaccine schedule and is an individual readiness requirement. The Supreme Court’s decision supports the processes under Defence Force orders that apply to a person who cannot meet individual readiness where restrictions on duties and implications for service is considered on a case-by-case basis.

This story has been edited since original release, 26 May 8.00pm.