Call for Input – Consultation on Strengthening the Modern Slavery Act

13 August 2025

Background 

Australia’s Modern Slavery Act 2018 requires large entities with annual consolidated revenue above A$100 million to publish statements on how they assess and address modern slavery risks in their operations and supply chains. A statutory review led by Professor John McMillan AO recommended 30 reforms. These include introducing penalties, expanding reporting criteria, and embedding due diligence obligations. 

Current Consultation 

The Attorney-General’s Department is seeking feedback on proposals to strengthen the Act. The consultation covers mandatory reporting criteria, compliance and enforcement mechanisms, and options for joint or voluntary reporting. It also seeks views on notification requirements when an entity ceases to be a reporting entity. 

How to Participate 

The consultation paper and submission portal are available on the Attorney-General’s Department Consultation Hub. Members who would like to respond directly can do so via the online survey or as a written submission. The consultation closes at midnight (AEST) on Monday, 1 September 2025. 

The AFGC is preparing a collective submission to this consultation and urges all members to share their feedback by 27 August 2025 to ensure their views are represented. Send all feedback to Sarah Collier, Director – Sustainability (sarah.collier@afgc.org.au). 

Contact

For more information, please contact me at sarah.collier@afgc.org.au

Sarah Collier
Director – Sustainability