The Modern Slavery Act 2018 was widely hailed as a critical first step by Australia towards tackling the global problem of modern slavery, with the government proclaiming that it would transform the way businesses respond to modern slavery by prompting a business-led ‘race to the top’.
But two years into its operation, the extent to which the legislation is transforming business practices or making a tangible difference to the lives of workers remains highly uncertain.
On February 16 we held a discussion about the impact of Australia's Modern Slavery Act with human rights experts and contributors to a new report, Paper Promises? Evaluating the early impact of Australia's Modern Slavery Act.
The report is part of a two-year collaborative research project by academics and civil society organisations aimed at improving responses to modern slavery and access to remedy for affected workers.
Speakers:
● Freya Dinshaw, Human Rights Law Centre
● Amy Sinclair, Business and human rights specialist
● Ramila Chanisheff, President, Australian Uyghur Womens’ Tangritagh Association
Moderated by Professor Justine Nolan, Director, Australian Human Rights Institute