Australian Red Cross and SBS launch training to help workplaces in the fight against Modern Slavery

Australian Red Cross and SBS have joined forces to launch a new online training program giving Australian workplaces the knowledge and tools to spot, prevent and respond to Modern Slavery. Inspired by survivors and guided by sector experts, the course delivers practical strategies and resources to drive real change.

Modern Slavery is a hidden crime affecting 50 million people globally - and an estimated 41,000 in Australia. With awareness still limited, this training marks a critical step forward.

Head of SBS Inclusion Program Leon Coningham said this partnership combines the deep expertise Australian Red Cross has in supporting survivors and shaping policy, with SBS’s proven reach in creating and distributing impactful learning programs.

“Together an accessible, best-in-class course has been designed to give every workplace practical tools to help prevent Modern Slavery in their own operations and supply chains,” said Mr Coningham.

Australian Red Cross Senior Manager Modern Slavery Prevention and Response Natalie Maxwell-Davis said the program draws on lived experience to drive change.

“This program creates a meaningful way for people to engage with and be informed by lived experience. By partnering with SBS we have been able to develop training that will build collective awareness and catalyse action,” said Ms Maxwell-Davis.

Australian Red Cross CEO Andrew Colvin said Australian Red Cross sees the impacts of Modern Slavery firsthand.

“Survivors who enter the Support for Trafficked People Program have faced the worst forms of exploitation, often hidden in plain sight. Survivors often only get one chance to seek help – it is important that people know how to recognise the signs and respond safely,” said Mr Colvin.

SBS Acting Manager Director Jane Palfreyman said Modern Slavery deprives victims of their dignity, fundamental rights and freedoms, and has no place in a modern, cohesive society.

“SBS is strongly committed to amplifying the voices of those unheard and at risk. We look forward to working with Australian Red Cross to harness the power of organisations to recognise and prevent all forms of Modern Slavery in Australia,” said Ms Palfreyman.

Featuring real stories, expert interviews and practical actions, the training is supported by a range of resources designed to help create change. Topics covered include:

• What is Modern Slavery
• The language of Modern Slavery
• Recognising and responding to Modern Slavery; and
• What organisations can do to address Modern Slavery

The training empowers every workplace to play its part in eradicating Modern Slavery. Find out more at www.redcross.org.au/modernslaverytraining/.

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For Australian Red Cross media enquires contact: media@redcross.org.au or 1800 733 443 For SBS media enquires contact: leah.boonthanom@sbs.com.au or 0411 860 741

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About the SBS Inclusion Program

SBS holds a unique place in the Australian media, inspiring all Australians to explore, respect and celebrate our diverse world and in doing so, contributes to an inclusive and cohesive society with content in over 60 languages. The SBS Inclusion Program is Australia’s leading online DE&I program providing courses and resources covering a range of topics including Inclusion, Disability, First Nations, Cultural Diversity, Gender Equity, Generational Diversity, LGBTIQ+, Appropriate Workplace Behaviour, Neurodiversity, Inclusive Recruitment. The Inclusion Program is currently licensed to more than 650 organisations and over 1.2 million employees.

About Australian Red Cross and Support for Trafficked People Program

The Support for Trafficked People Program is a national support program funded by the Australian Government and delivered by the Australian Red Cross. The program assists people who have experienced modern slavery (including forced marriage if other types of exploitation are also present) in meeting their safety, security, health and wellbeing needs. Through intensive casework, and referrals to specialist services, support may include accommodation, medical assistance, counselling, education and training and social support.

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If you or someone you know is experiencing exploitation, help is available. You can report to the Australian Federal Police on 131 AFP (131 237) or https://www.afp.gov.au; or seek confidential advice and support from the Additional Referral Pathway on 1800 000 277 or https://www.salvationarmy.org.au