21 million people—including children—are in forced labour around the world. Closer to home, in Australia, there are approximately 4,300 people trapped by criminal syndicates.
Slavery has not been abolished. The constant push for cheaper goods and higher profits puts pressure the entire supply chain. Wholesalers or distributers are pressured into looking for cheaper manufacturers or farmers. Business buyers will negotiate such low prices that suppliers are forced to push down the price it pays for the materials it needs, which can have a knock-on effect on those involved in the production of raw materials, increasing the likelihood of the use of slavery.
There is evidence of slavery in different stages of supply chains, from the production of raw materials, to fishing, and manufacturing every-day goods such as mobile phones or garments.
Companies have a moral obligation to ensure they do not profit from slavery. This means keeping slave labour out of every part of their supply chain, not just the goods produced in their own factories.
The Australian government is currently looking at introducing legislation to put an end to slave labour. We need to encourage them to apply the law along all levels of the supply chain, and most importantly, enforce it.
Sign this petition and add your voice to stop slave labour in Australia! 