Review of Australia’s Modern Slavery Act 2018

Overview

The Modern Slavery Act 2018 (Cth) commenced on 1 January 2019 and complements Australia’s comprehensive criminal justice response to modern slavery.

The Act was established through extensive consultations with the Australian business community and civil society. Under the Act, large businesses and other entities operating in Australia must report annually on how they are addressing modern slavery risks in their domestic and global operations and supply chains.

The Australian Government is undertaking a statutory review of the Act’s operation and compliance over the first three years since commencement. The review commenced on 31 March 2022 and is to be completed within one year, followed by a report to be tabled in Parliament. Professor John McMillan, AO, is leading the review, supported by the Attorney-General’s Department.

Read the Terms of Reference [PDF] for the review.

Why we are consulting

We are consulting with business, civil society, government, and other interested stakeholders to seek views on the operation of the Act and compliance with the Act during its first 3 years since 1 January 2019. We are interested to know whether additional measures are necessary to improve the Act’s operation and compliance in the Australian context.

Who we want to hear from

While the consultation is open to all members of the public, we would particularly like to hear from entities reporting under the Act, civil society organisations, and peak bodies.

How to engage with the consultation process

There are 2 ways you can provide your input:

• Online survey: Complete our online survey using the 'Have your say' link below. You do not have to address all questions.
• Written submission: Send us submissions and comments in response to our issues paper. Consultation questions are set out in the paper to guide feedback. However, you do not have to address any or all of these questions. Email submissions to ModernSlaveryActReview@ag.gov.au .

The consultation opens on 22 August 2022 and closes 22 November 2022.

During this period, Professor McMillan will be conducting targeted in-person and online consultation sessions. If you are interested in participating in these sessions, contact ModernSlaveryActReview@ag.gov.au. All communication to Professor McMillan regarding the review should be sent to this email address.

The consultation period closes on 22 November 2022.

Download the Issues Paper [PDF]