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Culture & Lived experience

Pride in Defence

Pride in Defence is the NZDF programme of work that supports LGBT+ inclusion.

The Pride in Defence programme focuses on helping ensure all personnel can serve in a safe, professional, and respectful environment, without unnecessary barriers to participation or performance.

It supports good leadership practice by identifying where policy, systems, or workplace behaviours may affect retention, trust, or wellbeing. Pride in Defence is delivered within NZDF policy, command, and governance frameworks and aligns with wider people and culture initiatives.

Overwatch

Overwatch is the personnel‑led LGBT+ network that supports Pride in Defence. The network brings people together in a supportive and constructive way, giving personnel and allies opportunities to connect, share perspectives, and raise matters that are important to them. It offers practical insight to the Pride in Defence programme, helping leaders understand the experiences of their people and respond thoughtfully where support or improvement is needed.