A further tranche of modern slavery statements are now publicly available online as the Australian Government approaches a major milestone in its efforts to combat modern slavery in global supply chains.

By 31 March 2021, all businesses operating in Australia that earn over AUD$100 million and operate on the Australian Financial Year must have submitted a Modern Slavery Statement (statement) under the landmark Modern Slavery Act 2018 (the Act).
Statements must explain the business’s actions to assess and address modern slavery risks in their global operations and supply chains.

The additional statements bring the total number of modern slavery statements on Online Register of Modern Slavery Statements to 673. These statements capture the operations of over 1,300 entities across 23​ countries.

Assistant Minister for Customs, Community Safety and Multicultural Affairs, the Hon Jason Wood, said the approaching deadline represents a major milestone in the implementation of the Act.

“This deadline will capture many Australian reporting entities and provide the Australian public an opportunity to assess how large Australian businesses are combating modern slavery across the board.”

“The strong early response we are seeing demonstrates how the legislation is driving business action to assess and address modern slavery risks, and delivering transparency for consumers and civil society.”  

“I applaud those businesses who have gone the extra mile and submitted statements that go beyond the mandatory criteria of the Act. These statements should serve as a benchmark for every business wanting to eradicate modern slavery in its supply chains,” Assistant Minister Wood said.

Detailed guidance on preparing modern slavery statements, including on the mandatory reporting criteria and approval requirements, can be found on the Online Register.