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Modern slavery is an umbrella term for a series of human rights abuses including human trafficking, slavery and forced labour.
The Modern Slavery Act 2018 (Cth) requires certain large Australian organisations (as defined under the Act) to submit annual reports on the modern slavery risks in their operations and supply chains, and the actions they are taking to address those risks.
Since the legislation was introduced, governments, business partners, investors, financiers, consumers and other stakeholders are putting increased pressure on business to take meaningful action to end modern slavery.
This note explains the scope of the Act, highlights modern slavery risks in the construction industry, and provides strategies for architects to comply with the Act and operate responsibly.