Action to eliminate Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking

  • Joint media release with:
  • The Hon Mark Dreyfus KC MP, Attorney-General
  • The Hon Justine Elliot MP, Assistant Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence

The Albanese Government is working to eliminate the scourge of modern slavery and human trafficking through action at home and overseas.

Today Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong, Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus and Assistant Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence Justine Elliot will host the 15th National Roundtable on Human Trafficking and Slavery.

To help deliver the Albanese Government's ambitious reform agenda, 20 members have been appointed to the Modern Slavery Expert Advisory Group.

The Group will advise on the operation of the Modern Slavery Act 2018 and the practical implementation of measures to strengthen the Act, which the Government is considering following the Modern Slavery Act Review.

The individuals and organisations who have been appointed bring a diverse range of experience and expertise from business, civil society, unions and academica.

This year also marks 20 years of partnership to combat trafficking in persons between Australia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Australia is working with ASEAN partners to make a real difference to the lives of vulnerable people in our region. Over 10,000 government officials have now been trained to better identify, protect and support victims of trafficking and their families.

Since 2003, Australia has provided more than $160 million in development assistance to ASEAN countries to strengthen criminal justice responses and improve victim protection and support. This includes our current 10-year (2018-2028) $80 million ASEAN-Australia Counter Trafficking program (ASEAN-ACT).

If you or someone you know is a victim of modern slavery, please reach out to one of the below organisations for help. In an emergency, or if a child is concerned, dial 000.

Australian Federal Police

Border Watch

Anti-Slavery Australia

Media enquiries

  • Minister's office: (02) 6277 7500
  • DFAT Media Liaison: (02) 6261 1555