RAF corporal looks at policy on unacceptable behaviour as part of New Zealand exchange
An RAF corporal has completed a four-month tour with the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF), during which she reviewed and analysed the New Zealand Defence Force's (NZDF) Operation Respect initiative.
The programme aims to address unacceptable sexual behaviours as well as bullying, harassment, and discrimination within the organisation.
Cpl Murphy, a People Operations Specialist from RAF Brize Norton, was deployed to RNZAF Base Ohakea as part of Exercise Longlook.
The exchange programme allows UK and New Zealand personnel to experience each other's operations and explore different working practices.
"I have been able to travel to the other side of the world, not knowing a single person, but still feel like I am part of the wider output and family of air power and Defence within a different organisation," Cpl Murphy reflected.
Originally planning to study welfare frameworks in the defence force and RAF, Cpl Murphy pivoted her focus to Operation Respect after arriving in New Zealand.
Drawing from her experience within the RAF's Service Discipline team, she worked closely with the NZDF to compare policies and provide recommendations.
"I was able to look into the Defence Force policy and highlight similarities, differences and also suggest and provide the Senior Leader Team with alternative options and recommendations, which has positively impacted the review of Operation Respect," she said.
Beyond her policy work, Cpl Murphy immersed herself in the NZDF's culture.
She visited all three RNZAF air bases, completed the Tūrangawaewae induction programme, participated in a mentoring scheme, and spent time with recruits at the Command Recruit Training Squadron in Woodbourne.
One highlight of her tour was contributing to New Zealand's School to Skies programme, which inspires young people to explore careers in aviation.
"It has taught me no matter where you go in the military, you will always feel a sense of belonging," Cpl Murphy said, reflecting on her time overseas.
Cpl Murphy believes her experience will have lasting benefits for the RAF.
By examining the NZDF's approach to building a more inclusive and respectful military environment, she gained insights that she plans to implement within the UK Armed Forces.
Her recommendations and comparisons will contribute to refining RAF policies around inappropriate behaviour, supporting a more cohesive and effective strategy to uphold discipline and respect.
"This experience has taught me to step out of my comfort zone and face challenges head-on," she said.
"I can now utilise the skills I have learnt about myself and another military organisation to contribute and support future changes within the Royal Air Force and how I lead as a People Operations Specialist."
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