Anti-Slavery Commissioner welcomes Government's move to strengthen modern slavery laws

The Australian Anti-Slavery Commissioner, Chris Evans, welcomes the Government’s announcement that it will strengthen Australia’s modern slavery laws. 

The Government has proposed a new criminal ‘failure to prevent’ modern slavery offence, with a defence available where a business can prove it took reasonable steps to prevent modern slavery. The Government will also introduce civil penalties for non-compliance with current reporting requirements under the Modern Slavery Act. 

“This is a step towards a better and fairer approach to combating modern slavery. When Australia's Modern Slavery Act was introduced, we were regarded as a global leader. Today, comparable jurisdictions are moving beyond transparency requirements and introducing stronger enforcement mechanisms, due diligence obligations and import controls,” said the Commissioner. 

“The introduction of criminal provisions sends the right signal to business that they should be treating modern slavery with the seriousness it deserves.”

“Beyond the proposed measures, I want to see reforms that build on the investment already made in due diligence by businesses, prioritise remedy for victims, and push businesses beyond performative compliance.”

“Addressing modern slavery is a shared challenge, and no business can solve it alone. I want to see the new regime emphasise and encourage collaboration – including sector-based approaches to shared risks, particularly in high-risk industries – supported by meaningful government engagement.”

“A more robust response will also help position Australian businesses to remain competitive in key markets in the face of evolving regulatory and stakeholder expectations globally.” 

“Responsible and competitive markets depend on fair dealing. Profit should not be driven by a race to the bottom on wages and labour standards, nor by undercutting responsible Australian businesses.”

“These reforms, if done well and fully enforced, are an opportunity for Australia to be a leader again.”

“We look forward to learning more about the Government’s proposed reforms and encourage stakeholders to engage in the Government’s upcoming consultation on this proposal,” the Commissioner said.