Modern Slavery Victims Face Justice System Failures in Australia
'Extremely traumatising': Modern slavery victims let down by police, courts
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A report reveals that modern slavery victims in Australia are inadequately supported by the justice system, with only 1% of reports leading to convictions. Victims report trauma during the reporting process and call for systemic changes to improve understanding and accountability.
- 01Only 1% of modern slavery reports to the Australian Federal Police result in convictions.
- 02Over 3,000 reports of modern slavery were made in the last 20 years, but only 41 convictions occurred from 2004 to 2025.
- 03Victims face barriers such as low community awareness, fear of deportation, and trauma when navigating the justice system.
- 04The Australian Anti-Slavery Commissioner emphasizes the need for better training for police and prosecutors regarding modern slavery.
- 05The federal government is set to consult on a new national strategy to address modern slavery later this year.
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A recent report commissioned by the Australian Anti-Slavery Commissioner highlights significant shortcomings in the justice system for modern slavery victims in Australia. With only 1% of over 3,000 reports leading to convictions, many victims feel unsupported. The report indicates that police and prosecutors often rely too heavily on victim testimony without pursuing other evidence, such as financial trails. Victims report that navigating the justice process is 'extremely traumatising,' with one survivor, Emma, sharing her experiences of commercial sexual exploitation and forced labor. She expressed disappointment in the lack of awareness among police about modern slavery and the inadequate support provided. The report calls for systemic changes to improve understanding and accountability within law enforcement. Australian Anti-Slavery Commissioner Chris Evans noted that many cases fail to deliver justice, urging for a focus on victim voices in future strategies. The federal government plans to consult on a new national strategy to combat modern slavery, amid concerns from the United States regarding Australia's efforts to prevent forced labor.
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Victims of modern slavery in Australia are not receiving adequate support from the justice system, which affects their ability to seek justice and recovery.
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