Australian anti-slavery commissioner Chris Evans says the Albanese government’s proposed crackdown on forced labour does not go far enough and urges mandatory due-diligence laws requiring large companies to identify and address modern slavery risks in their supply chains.

The debate comes amid a 12.5% US tariff on Australian exports, with Washington accusing partners of tolerating forced labour in production.

Evans argues a clear national framework aligned with international standards would help Australian businesses stay competitive and maintain access to international markets.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese previously pressed President Trump to exempt or reduce the tariff, while Evans criticizes the tariff as weaponising human rights issues.

Business groups such as the Minerals Council of Australia and the Business Council of Australia have voiced concerns about criminal penalties for executives and the broader approach to tackling modern slavery in supply chains.

Evans notes Australia imports about US$17.4 billion ($25 billion) worth of goods annually that could be produced with forced labour, underscoring gaps between reporting and enforceable obligations.

Evans contends criminal penalties alone are insufficient and promotes a four-part overhaul: mandatory due diligence by large businesses and government, criminal penalties for serious wrongdoing, stronger rights for victims to seek compensation, and enhanced annual reporting tied to legal obligations.

The government’s plan includes a criminal offence for companies that fail to prevent modern slavery alongside existing reporting requirements under the Modern Slavery Act 2018.