Labor is pleased to participate in the inaugural Bali Process Government and Business Forum in Perth today. Governments and business leaders from across our region have come together at this event, demonstrating unity on the scourge of slavery. This is a matter on which Labor offers continued bipartisan support.
Labor has led the way on this issue. Earlier this year, Bill Shorten and Labor committed to a Modern Slavery Act with penalties for non-compliance and an Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner. This announcement was warmly welcomed by business leaders, unions and civil society.
The Turnbull Government has recently followed Labor's lead and committed to a Modern Slavery Act, but unfortunately failed to commit to penalties for non-compliance or the establishment of an Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner.
While this announcement was a step in the right direction, it does not go far enough.
We face a once-in-a-generation opportunity, with business as our partners, to help stamp out this abhorrent practice with legislation that will actually make a difference. An Australian Modern Slavery Act must have an effective compliance regime.
We also need an Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner, as called for by major Australian businesses. There are an estimated 4,300 people trapped in slavery right here in Australia, and they need our help.
Labor is impressed by the genuine passion in the business community and in the broader Australian community to fight slavery.
We look forward to the Government joining Labor in making stronger commitments to fight against modern slavery.