Inquiry into modern-day slavery
AUSTRALIA’S efforts to combat human trafficking and modern-day slavery are to be examined by a parliamentary committee.
The Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade has launched the inquiry and is calling for public submissions.
Human rights sub-committee chairman, Laurie Ferguson, says the trade of men, women and children through force or coercion is one of the world’s fastest-growing criminal activities.
“People trafficking is rightly considered to be one of the most heinous crimes that can be committed against a person,” Mr Ferguson says in a statement today (Friday, August 17).
“It’s important that every country do as much as possible to combat this terrible crime.”
The Australian Federal Police conducted 300 investigations into human trafficking and slavery offences between 2004 and 2011, resulting in 13 convictions.
Submissions close on September 28. | 
Social Conscience Issues
