Introducing the Free to Lead Toolkit
We are proud to share the Ministry for Women’s Free to Lead: Online Harm Toolkit. It’s a comprehensive, free online resource designed to empower and support women and their employers to navigate the online world with confidence.
Why this matters:
Research shows that women in high-profile public roles are more likely to experience online harassment and abuse. Around one in three New Zealanders have faced some form of online harm, but women in the public eye are disproportionately targeted – with recent studies revealing widespread harassment of female Members of Parliament, leaders in local government and other public-facing roles. This creates real barriers to women’s participation in leadership, public life and digital spaces, often leading to psychological distress, self-censorship and missed opportunities.
What’s in the toolkit?
Developed in partnership with Netsafe, the toolkit features two practical, interactive modules – one for women and one for employers. It is also supported by a powerful video series, Beyond the Keyboard, featuring high-profile women sharing their lived experiences of online harm and how they’ve navigated these challenges. The women’s module empowers users with strategies to identify, respond to and recover from online harm, information on New Zealand law, and tips for building a safe and confident online presence. The employer module equips organisations with guidance to support their team, build a culture of online safety and respond effectively if harm occurs.
Why is this toolkit needed?
Online harm is on the rise as more of our work, community and leadership activities move into digital spaces. It is vital that safety concerns do not prevent women from stepping into leadership and public roles. The Free to Lead toolkit doesn’t ask women to change the way they engage online—it provides the knowledge, support, and practical steps needed to stay visible and safe, and helps employers create environments where women feel supported, not silenced.
Who is it for?
While designed with women in leadership and public-facing roles in mind, this toolkit is relevant for anyone experiencing online harm and for all employers wanting to foster a safer, more inclusive workplace.
Take action!
The toolkit is available now and it’s free to use. We encourage our members to explore the resources, support colleagues, and be part of a safer, more equitable digital landscape.
