"Time for action as Australia considers mandatory due diligence on modern slavery", 17 February 2026

The current review of Australia’s Modern Slavery Act presents a crucial opportunity to introduce mandatory due diligence and prevent exploitation in supply chains linked to the country’s economy.

The new report Overdue Diligence outlines why reform is essential to strengthen Australia’s legal framework and drive effective action to address forced labour.

Introducing a due diligence requirement will better protect people from exploitation while ensuring Australian businesses remain competitive in a rapidly changing global regulatory landscape.

With industry consultations on the Modern Slavery Act review underway, Australia has a clear opportunity to improve its response to modern slavery.

Global expectations are shifting from transparency toward accountability, and our laws should reflect this…

Clear and consistent legal requirements would help businesses:

1. Protect workers linked to Australian supply chains from forced labour.
2. Level the playing field for responsible businesses in Australia.
3. Strengthen Australia’s global competitiveness and maintain access to key export markets.
4. Build both business resilience alongside investor and consumer trust.
5. Align with the global shift towards mandatory action and reduce legal risk.

Embedding due diligence into core business practice positions Australian companies to compete in markets where responsible production is becoming a baseline expectation.

Transparency alone has not delivered meaningful change…

Mandatory due diligence requires businesses to actively manage the risk of modern slavery across their operations and supply chains.

An effective framework requires companies to identify and assess risk, and take action to prevent harm, monitor effectiveness, ensure access to remedy for those affected and report on progress…

Major trading partners are rapidly introducing mandatory due diligence requirements through regulation, procurement rules, and market expectations.

Jurisdictions including Thailand, Indonesia, and the European Union are reshaping the baseline for responsible business conduct in international trade…

By demonstrating support for due diligence reforms in these public fora and in their sector, businesses would help secure consistent standards, reduce long-term risk, and reinforce Australia’s reputation for responsible commerce…