The Assistant Minister for Customs, Community Safety and Multicultural Affairs, the Hon Jason Wood MP, today launched the Government’s first annual report to Parliament on the implementation of Australia’s landmark Modern Slavery Act (the Act).
“Modern slavery is an abhorrent crime that has no place in our communities or our supply chains” Assistant Minister Wood said.
“This report showcases our work to implement the Act and eradicate modern slavery from the supply chains of our goods and services.”
The report highlights the Government’s collaborative and proactive approach to implementing the Act over 2019, including:
- establishing a dedicated Modern Slavery Business Engagement Unit in the Australian Border Force
- developing detailed, world-leading guidance for businesses and other organisations about modern slavery risks
- convening Australia’s first national modern slavery conference for 400 delegates from 18 countries
- delivering an extensive awareness-raising program of over 40 events around Australia and overseas
- establishing a free online helpdesk which supported almost 250 businesses.
“The biggest impact in the fight to end modern slavery is when governments, business and civil society work together to tackle this serious crime,” Assistant Minister Wood said.
These activities complement Australia’s existing whole-of-community response to modern slavery, which is developed and implemented in consultation with the National Roundtable on Human Trafficking and Slavery.
Section 23A of the Act requires the Government to report annually on its actions to implement the legislation.
The report is available on the
Home Affairs website
