Faith leaders call for end to modern day slavery

The leaders of several different faith groups have come together at Parliament House in Canberra to call for an end to modern day slavery.

Sandra came to Australia with the promise of a permanent visa and a safe and secure working environment. What she got when she arrived was much worse. Source: SBS

Leaders of 15 different faiths from around the country have pledged their support help to end modern slavery.

It is estimated there are about 3000 people subjected to domestic and sex slavery in Australia and nearly 36 million worldwide.

Mining magnate Andrew Forrest has committed to ending slavery by 2020 with his organisation the Walk Free Foundation and he said Australians have a role to play.

“You as the everyday Australian can ask when you go to your shops, 'how can I be sure when I speak to the retailers, how can I be sure, can you assure me that there's no forced labour anywhere in your supply chains?'" he said.

His daughter, Grace Forrest, became involved in the fight against slavery after a school visit to a slavery rehabilitation clinic in Nepal.

She said getting a commitment from leaders was imperative.

“In so many countries in the world their faith means a lot more to them than their governance and that's because their politics are weak," she said.

"They change all the time and they're corrupt as opposed to their faith, it's how they see their law and how they live their life.”

The faith group leaders met on Wednesday in Parliament House in Canberra to condemn slavery.

Salvation Army Commissioner James Condon said “modern day slavery must end…this should not be”.

“We believe all people are created in the image of God and are loved by him," he said.

"No person is of less value or importance and therefore all should be treated with the same respect and the same love and given the same opportunities.”

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop addressed the group and said the Australian government would do as much as possible to end the trade.

“Human trafficking is one of the biggest criminal industries in the world and it must be stamped out," she said.

"Australia has long supported treaties and resolutions and initiatives aimed at combatting human trafficking and slavery.

“Australia has also addressed human trafficking in our region through programs such as the Australia-Asia program to combat trafficking in persons. We are committed to practical action not just the treaties and resolutions.”