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Why the 2021 Modern Slavery Statement is important for you

1 July 2022
Slavery still exists – and this matters for everyone
The University has released its 2021 Modern Slavery Statement, outlining our commitment to human rights, strategy to address modern slavery and actions taken to date. Here’s what students need to know.

Why should I care about this?

While we often think of slavery as a historical crime from the distant past, the reality could not be more different.

Today, there are likely more people living in conditions of slavery than at any other time in history. The International Labour Organisation estimates there are more than 40 million people in modern slavery conditions worldwide, with up to 15,000 people estimated to be living in conditions of modern slavery in Australia.

Young people, including students, are at heightened risk. Students are particularly vulnerable to being exploited in the workplace, especially those who have fewer immediate support networks, lower English language proficiency, work in the gig economy, or are unaware of the workforce laws in Australia. Sadly, it is likely that members of our student community are being exploited and may even be living in slavery conditions. 

What can I do about it?

Complete the Anti-Slavery Training

If you haven’t already, complete the short and engaging  Anti-slavery awareness training module developed by the University of Sydney in partnership with Anti-Slavery Australia, which has been specifically designed for University of Sydney students.

To access the module, as well as other helpful information and resources, visit the Modern Slavery website for current students.

Watch this video to hear what students who have completed the module thought about it

Raise a modern slavery concern or incident

In late 2021, we launched our Modern Slavery Incident Reporting Form, providing students and staff with a mechanism to report modern slavery incidents or concerns.

If you are experiencing modern slavery or concerned about someone who might be experiencing suspected incidents of modern slavery such labour exploitation, debt bondage, or risks of forced marriage or other types of modern slavery, notify the Modern Slavery Team through the Modern Slavery Incident Reporting Form  to access support including referrals to free legal counselling.

Find the 2021 Modern Slavery Statement (PDF, 3059 KB), as well as other useful materials to enhance your understanding, on the Modern Slavery website for current students.

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