Slavery, Slavery-like Conditions and People Trafficking Legislation

Crimes Legislation Amendment

On Wednesday 30th May 2012 the Federal Attorney General introduced into the Australian Parliament new legislation that criminalises forced marriage, forced labour and organ trafficking. In presenting the bill the Hon Nicola Roxon MP commented “A common factor of contemporary slavery and trafficking—from forced labour and forced marriage to organ trafficking—is the misuse and abuse of power. And such an abuse has no place here in Australia. I want to send that message loud and clear to all Australians and to all young people: duress, violence and intimidation are not acceptable in contemporary Australian society—in any context. Slavery, trafficking and forced marriage are unacceptable and they will now be very serious crimes.”

The Hansard report may be found here.