Updates to the CAF Grievance System are coming in April

March 20, 2026 - Defence Stories

Estimated read time – 2:20

The Department of National Defence (DND) and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) are committed to providing a fair, transparent, and effective grievance system that supports CAF member well‑being and operational effectiveness. To continue delivering on this commitment, several updates will be made to grievance regulations and policies this spring.

On April 1, a new CAF Grievance Policy will come into force, replacing Defence Administrative Order and Directive (DAOD) 2017‑1, Military Grievance Process and bringing procedural and administrative guidance into one comprehensive, easy-to-use policy. Updates will also be made to the Queen’s Regulations and Orders (QR&O) Volume 1 – Chapter 7 Grievances and DAOD 2017-0, Military Grievance. Together, these changes modernize the grievance system so that it is clearer, more consistent, and easier for CAF members and leaders to navigate.

What are the key changes?

Here is what CAF members can expect from the upcoming updates:

• A consolidated CAF Grievance Policy: clearer, streamlined guidance in a single location.
• Clearer standards and expectations: improved guidance on submitting, managing, and reviewing grievances, including topics such as disclosure, representations, late submissions, and Final Authority reviews.
• Modernized regulations: simplified requirements, reduced duplication, and strengthened impartial oversight, particularly in cases involving sexual misconduct.
• Updated DAODs: DAOD 2017‑0 is being clarified, and DAOD 2017‑1 will be repealed with relevant content integrated into the new policy.
• Better support for leaders: a new Grievance Centre of Expertise, established in January 2026, will provide procedural support and education to Commanding Officers and Initial Authorities.

Please note, these updates apply only to grievances submitted on or after April 1, 2026. Grievances already in progress will continue under the current regulations and policies.

Why are these changes being made?

These updates are part of ongoing efforts to strengthen fairness, clarity, and timeliness across the grievance system. Aligning regulations, policy, and practice will make the process easier to understand and more responsive to member needs. Moving detailed procedures from regulation to policy will also allow updates to be made more efficiently as CAF requirements evolve.

Overall, the changes reinforce the Defence Team’s commitment to a grievance system that is fair, transparent, and accessible to all members.

What do CAF members need to do?

Here’s what members and leaders can do to prepare for the policy updates:

For all CAF members

• Take time to review the updated policy once it is published. This will help you understand your rights and what to expect throughout the grievance process.

For Commanding Officers (COs) and leaders

• Review the updated guidance before April 1, 2026, especially if you receive or manage grievances.
• Plan time to complete the updated grievance training once it becomes available.
• Contact the new Grievance Centre of Expertise for procedural advice and support related to grievances.

Ongoing support available anytime

• While the new policy will not be in effect until April 1, 2026, you can continue to submit grievances at any time under the current regulations.
• For help understanding the process or preparing a submission, Conflict and Complaint Management Services (CCMS) offers confidential guidance.

Looking ahead

Modernization of the grievance system will continue throughout 2026, with further improvements focused on clarity, procedural fairness, and ease of navigation. As the new policy comes into effect, additional tools, updated training, and guidance materials will be rolled out to support both members and leaders.