Australia's First Anti-Slavery Commissioner: Australia’s Toothless Tiger Grows Baby Teeth
If Australia’s modern slavery regime has been dubbed a “Toothless Tiger”, it has finally grown some baby teeth. Last week, Australia appointed Chris Evans (no, not that Chris Evans) as its first Anti?Slavery Commissioner.
With a mandate supported by $8 million in government funding over a four-year period, Evans’ appointment marks a new chapter in Australia’s stance on combating modern slavery, with implications for businesses required to report under the Modern Slavery Act 2018 (Cth).
Modern Slavery in Australia
It’s a mistake to consider slavery a relic of the past. In Australia, businesses primarily source from the Asia Pacific region, home to the world’s highest rates of modern slavery. The problem isn’t just outside Australia’s borders. The Global Slavery Index estimates that 41,000 people in Australia currently live and work modern slavery conditions.
What to expect
1.???????????? Increased Scrutiny on Reporting
Reporting entities under the Act should prepare for heightened levels of engagement. The Commissioner is likely to influence standards on how companies identify, manage, and mitigate risks related to modern slavery in supply chains.
Expect a closer review of your business’ Modern Slavery Statements and clearer expectations around due diligence.
2.???????????? Guidance and Public Awareness
The Commissioner’s office is expected to release targeted guidelines, tools, and educational resources, supporting entities to embed anti-slavery practices.
With the Commissioner also focused on public awareness, companies can expect to face increased consumer expectations around their supply chains. Transparency and robust reporting are likely to gain greater attention and may become a competitive differentiator, encouraging businesses to “race to the top”.
3.???????????? Upcoming Reforms
An independent statutory review of Australia’s Modern Slavery Act published in May 2023 found the laws had “not yet caused meaningful change” for people living and working in modern slavery. The Albanese Government is expected to respond to this review before the end of the year.
Looking Forward
Chris Evans’ appointment promises a more proactive approach to regulating modern slavery in Australia. Businesses caught by the Act would be wise to revisit their modern slavery compliance frameworks – including statements, policies and due diligence processes – in anticipation of increased engagement and support from the Commissioner’s office.
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