Migration, modern slavery and decent work

Modern slavery is a global challenge that persists in various forms, affecting millions of individuals around the world, including in Australia.

It is an umbrella term which refers to relationships which are based on exploitation and coercion, including forced labour or marriage, human trafficking, debt bondage, child labour, and deceptive recruiting for labour or services.

In Australia, modern slavery-like practices are more common in industries such as agriculture, construction, hospitality, domestic work, and the sex industry, and among certain groups of people, including migrant workers, refugees, and other marginalised groups. They include, but are not limited to, underpayment, unsafe working conditions, violence, and the confiscation of passports as a means of control.

Economic pressures, globalisation, and a demand for cheap labour, all contribute to the prevalence of modern slavery in Australia. As businesses and consumers, we play a part in these cycles of exploitations when we engage with exploitative suppliers or organisations and contribute to a demand for low-cost goods. Australia has taken steps to address modern slavery through legislation, though it is still challenging to detect, prevent, and respond, because of complex supply chains and weaknesses in regulation and enforcement.