Australia has appointed its first anti-slavery watchdog.

Former Labor senator and minister Chris Evans will soon begin a five-year term in December as the inaugural Australian Anti-Slavery Commissioner.

Evans, a former senator for Western Australia and cabinet member under the Rudd and Gillard governments, also brings experience from his role as chief executive of Walk Free’s Global Freedom Network, which works with faith leaders around the world to combat human trafficking and slavery. 

“Modern slavery deprives victims of their dignity, fundamental rights and freedoms,” Dreyfus said. 

There are currently around 41,000 individuals estimated to be living in conditions of modern slavery within Australia. This includes victims of human trafficking, forced labour, deceptive recruiting, forced marriage, and debt bondage.

Evans’ efforts will be backed by funding of $8 million allocated over four years for the commission.

The commissioner is expected to focus on strengthening collaboration across government, business, and civil society to prevent slavery, support victims, and raise public awareness. 

Part of his role will involve assisting companies in addressing slavery risks in their supply chains. He will also help shape future reforms from the ongoing review of the 2018 Modern Slavery Act.

More details are accessible here.

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