Interim report on modern slavery in global supply chains

THE Foreign Affairs and Aid Sub-Committee of the Parliament’s Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade has tabled its interim report for its inquiry into establishing a Modern Slavery Act in Australia.

The Sub-Committee is investigating whether elements of the UK Modern Slavery Act 2015 could be introduced in Australia, particularly the UK requirement for businesses and organisations to report on how they ensure their global supply chains are free of slavery and human trafficking.

The Sub-Committee’s interim report, Modern slavery in global supply chains, summarises the evidence heard so far on the issue of global supply chain reporting. The report highlights the strong support from businesses, unions and NGOs for the introduction of supply chain reporting requirements for businesses and organisations operating in Australia. The report also highlights support for an Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner to coordinate and oversee Australia’s response to combatting modern slavery.

The report recommends that the Australian Government consider introducing a Modern Slavery Act in Australia, including supply chain reporting requirements and an Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner. The report also offers in-principle support for a number of proposed elements of a Modern Slavery Act and identifies areas for further consideration in the Sub-Committee’s final report.

Chair of the Foreign Affairs and Aid Sub‑Committee, Mr Chris Crewther MP, said the Sub-Committee welcomed the Australian Government’s recent announcement supporting a mandated modern slavery reporting requirement for businesses and organisations operating in Australia, as well as a central repository.

“We have a unique, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take the lead on stamping out modern slavery for good, particularly with over 30 million victims in our region.”

“Let us not miss the opportunity to continue taking strong action on this issue. I look forward to working with the Sub-Committee for the remainder of this inquiry to recommend, then see implemented, strong action to eradicate this appalling crime. Modern slavery must stop.”

The Sub-Committee’s inquiry into modern slavery continues and its final report will address the other important issues raised by submitters and witnesses including support for victims, Australia’s visa framework and orphanage trafficking.

The interim report is available from the committee’s website: www.aph.gov.au/modernslavery.

 Interested members of the public may wish to track the committee via the website. 

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