Skip to main content

50th Session of the Human Rights Council

National Statement during the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on trafficking in persons, especially women and children, 21 June 2022

Australia thanks the Special Rapporteur for her important work on human trafficking in the agriculture sector. Human trafficking and all forms of modern slavery have a devastating impact on individuals, communities, economies, and security.

Australia works to actively prevent and address modern slavery, including in the agriculture sector. This includes measures to disrupt, investigate and prosecute modern slavery, and a dedicated support program and visa framework for victims and survivors. We also work to identify and address modern slavery risks in global operations and supply chains through the Modern Slavery Act, which is currently undergoing a statutory review.

Australia has taken significant steps to protect all workers who may be vulnerable to the impacts of modern slavery, including migrant workers. This includes the introduction of laws and penalties, additional resources to ensure workers are aware of their workplace rights, and strengthened investigative powers for regulators.

Australia works closely with governments, businesses, and civil society through regional and international forums to increase awareness of, and help end, human trafficking.

We ask the Special Rapporteur how states can best incorporate survivor experiences into policy and legislative responses?

Back to top