NZ Government Probes Financial Markets Authority and Justice Ministry

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has appointed senior counsel Kristy McDonald KC to lead an independent investigation into workplace conduct and culture at the Financial Markets Authority (FMA). The probe follows reports of bullying, psychological‑safety concerns and a recent board acknowledgement that the FMA’s CEO Samantha Barrass is on leave. Earlier investigations had examined former chairman Craig Stobo’s conduct, leading to his resignation.

Separately, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith has ordered a rapid review of the Ministry of Justice after the mishandling of a five‑year employment case involving former employee Russell Harrison. The review, to be conducted by Debbie Francis and Steve Haszard, will assess the ministry’s overall operations. Goldsmith also directed the Public Service Commissioner to issue guidance to chief executives on managing employment matters that involve criminal proceedings, aiming to prevent similar failures.

Both actions reflect heightened scrutiny of New Zealand’s public‑sector agencies and a push for stronger governance and employee‑rights safeguards.