Reports of human trafficking, slavery to AFP reach new high

For first time in Australia’s history, the Australian Federal Police has created technology to combat “the scourge” of human trafficking and slavery.

Reports of human trafficking and slavery to the Australian Federal Police have increased to the highest ever reported, according to new statistics released today, UN World Day Against Trafficking in Persons (WDATIP).

In the 2021-22 financial year, the AFP received 294 reports of modern slavery and human trafficking, an increase from 224 in the previous financial year.

Of the 294 reports of human trafficking or slavery made to the AFP in the past financial year, the five most reported crime types were:

84 reports of forced marriage

54 reports of sexual servitude and exploitation

42 reports of forced labour

37 reports of exit trafficking in persons

21 of trafficking in children

As part of the AFP’s commitment to combating human trafficking and slavery offences in Australia, the AFP is using technology as a tool to counter these crimes and has developed a training and awareness program, Look-a-Little-Deeper.

AFP Commander Hilda Sirec.

AFP commander Hilda Sirec said this was the first time in Australia’s history where “the uptake of a unified training and awareness-raising protocol to combat human trafficking and slavery will be delivered across all frontline agencies and jurisdictions”.

“This represents a critical step to addressing the scourge of human trafficking in the Australian community and it’s a job the AFP and our partners will work together to combat,” she said.

Australian Ambassador for Human Trafficking and People Smuggling, Lucienne Manton, said the federal government was committed to combating human trafficking both at home and abroad.

“The rising reports of human trafficking remind us that no country is immune from human trafficking,” Ms Manton said.

“The use of technology can enable human trafficking, but it can also be used in innovative ways to prevent human trafficking.

“It is critical that we work together to identify the ways technology can be used to disrupt traffickers and support survivors.”

If you suspect that you or another person is experiencing, or at risk of, modern slavery or human trafficking, call 131 AFP (237) or use the AFP’s confidential online form.

If you have immediate concerns for your safety, the safety of another person, or there is an emergency, dial triple-0.

A list of signs to identify potential human trafficking and slavery in Australia is available on the AFP website – www.afp.gov.au/what-we-do/crime-types/human-trafficking