Decisions Officer

Mō te tūnga | About the role

Decision Officers and are a part of the statutory decision making process under the Veterans’ Support Act 2014 (the Act).  They are responsible for timely decision making on applications (claims) for pensions, income support, lump sum payments and other entitlements under the Act.

This is a critical part of the work done by Veterans’ Affairs to support veterans and their family members.

Decision Officers work with colleagues within Veterans’ Affairs, including application administrators, case managers and the policy team members, to support veterans and their family members and to contribute to continuous improvement within Veterans’ Affairs.

Once you have undergone training and are up to speed, there is the option of working from home for up 2 days a week. You will also be able to work from Trentham on a rostered basis.

It is advised to apply early to avoid disappointment, as this role may close ahead of time due to a high volume of applicants.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

We're looking for someone with experience working in the health or medico-legal or insurance sector, who has been involved in statutory decision making on individual cases (or with similar experience).

You’ll have experience making considered decisions within a legislative framework and be able to interpret medical reports and information.

A health background will be beneficial in this role and will allow you to continue to use your health expertise in a non-clinical environment.

Key skills and experience you’ll bring include:

• An understanding of veterans’ health issues.
• Well-developed relationship management skills.
• Excellent communication skills, including both verbal and written.
• A high level of attention to detail.
• The ability to research, work across different teams and apply a ‘can-do’ attitude.

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

Your skills and dedication deserve recognition, and NZDF delivers with competitive pay matched to your experience. But that's just the beginning – safeguard your loved ones with a fully funded life cover of up to $300,000 and critical illness protection. Other benefits include discounted additional insurances, free will services and savings schemes for the Defence community. Get expert financial guidance and mortgage broker services. Find all our benefits and more on the Force 4 Families website.

NZDF champions diversity and inclusivity, valuing every member and fuelling their success. We embrace uniqueness, understanding that diverse teams drive creativity, innovation, and excellence. With an open door to all – irrespective of gender, ethnicity, ability, age, or family dynamics – NZDF offers a flexible, empowering work environment. Join us in shaping a brighter future, where everyone thrives.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Applications close on Thursday 24 September 2026.

Use the links on this page where you’ll be directed to the Defence Careers website.

Please Note:

• All applications must be made online, via the Defence Careers website. Each listing contains the Position Description and a Contact Us option for any queries or technical issues.
• Your cover letter will be a key part of our selection process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key activities outlined in the Advert and Position Description.
• Applicants will be required to undergo a pre-employment drug-screening test prior to any offer of employment being made.

NZDF Employees/Members – please apply internally via the HR Toolkit; this will ensure that you are visible as an internal candidate.

NZDF Contractors – please apply via the Defence Careers website.

NZDF Reserves – please apply via the Defence Careers website if you cannot access the HR Toolkit.

Please Note:

To be eligible for the required level of government security clearance with the NZ Defence Force, you need to meet certain citizenship and residency criteria. Here’s what you need to know:

Low Level Security Clearance

• You must be a New Zealand citizen or you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa.
• At minimum, you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa, and you must be a citizen of and have lived in Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, United States of America or New Zealand continuously for the last five (5) years.
• You must have a five (5) year background history that can be verified and assessed appropriately by the NZ Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) to determine if you are suitable for a security clearance at this level.

If you do not meet the minimum criteria, unfortunately, your application will not be accepted. We do welcome your application at a time when you will meet the requirements.