The government will consult on implementation details, including whether deferred prosecutions will be available and what remedies will be provided to victims.

The reforms aim to replace the 2018 Commonwealth system, which Greens and NGOs criticized for relying on voluntary reporting.

Attorney-General emphasizes consumer rights and a level playing field for compliant businesses, signaling stronger corporate accountability.

Australian officials and researchers say the country has fallen behind peers in anti-slavery enforcement, prompting reforms described as significant by observers.

Australia moves to tighten modern slavery laws, proposing criminal penalties for large businesses with annual turnover over A$100 million that fail to prevent forced labour in their supply chains, with a key defence requiring evidence of reasonable steps to identify and prevent forced labour, slavery or debt bondage.

Proponents, including Anti-Slavery Commissioner and university researchers, argue current laws aren’t fit for purpose and the new measures would compel stronger action by businesses.

Greens advocate for a complete ban on importing slavery-made goods, using the McMillan review to support stronger action.

Companies earning more than A$100 million would face prosecution unless they can show they took reasonable steps to identify and prevent forced labour, slavery, or debt bondage in their operations and supply chains.

Independent reviews and investor/union pressure argued the current regime hadn’t driven meaningful change; reforms align with recommendations from a 2024 independent review led by Professor John McMillan.

Greens credit advocates and survivors for pushing reforms and say they will work with the government to ensure the legislation delivers on its promises.

Mirage News notes the material is time-sensitive and directs readers to the original release for the full view.

Greens identify a missing mechanism for individuals affected by modern slavery to file complaints and obtain remedies, calling for funded remedies rather than vague promises.