Modern Slavery Statement 2020 published
The University has published its first Modern Slavery Statement, formalising its commitment to supporting human rights across our operations and supply chain, aligning our approach to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.
The first Modern Slavery Statement was published on 30 June 2021 and outlines the actions the University of Melbourne has taken to identify, assess and address modern slavery risks.
The University is required to publish an annual statement of its efforts to gain greater transparency across its operations and supply chains, as outlined in the Commonwealth Modern Slavery Act (2018). The Act encourages businesses to adopt practices that prevent exploitation of workers.
The University recognises that modern slavery is a significant global human rights issue and is committed to becoming alert to and preventing instances of modern slavery in all its forms.
Controls and systems already in place limit the risk of modern slavery on our campuses, while we have already begun working collaboratively with high risk and high spend suppliers to understand their supply chains and who they do business with.
Next, processes that involve third parties will be amended to remain compliant to the ongoing requirements of the Act.
As an educational institution we acknowledge our responsibility to raise awareness among our staff, students and external supply base, about the risk modern slavery poses to an ethical and equitable workplace.
Efforts to minimise the risk of modern slavery align with the strategic priorities of Advancing Melbourne, through which the University has committed to lead on global challenges and develop and run campuses that contribute positively to social, economic and cultural wealth.