Australian businesses will have to say when their supply chains use "modern slavery" as the nation bids to be a world leader in stamping out the practice.
The country is expected to this year pass a Modern Slavery Act to tackle the risk of forced labour in supply chains, protect vulnerable migrant workers and compensate victims of slavery.
Foreign Minister Julie Bishop told an event at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in London that Australia will be a pioneer.
"The Australia government will shortly introduce modern slavery legislation that will contain reporting requirements for Australia's largest businesses to raise awareness about the scourge of modern slavery," Ms Bishop told reporters on Tuesday.
"To encourage disclosure, identification and disclosure of instances of modern slavery, and to clean up supply chains."
A 2015 British law introduced life sentences for human traffickers, compelled firms to address the risk of forced labour and announced an independent anti-slavery commissioner.
Yet the British government has been criticised by several anti-slavery activists for a lack of support for victims and for working with suppliers who flout the law.
"It is important that we are following Britain's lead, but the requirements of our act have come about as a result of discussions in Australia," Ms Bishop said.
Compared to Britain, Australia's law would be stricter on the content of the annual statement showing actions taken to ensure supply chains are slavery-free, while the government would publish a list of all entities required to comply.
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