Developing a framework for assessing the readiness of entities in the construction industry in addressing modern slavery

Abstract

Australia's Modern Slavery Act 2018 (Cth) requires entities with at least AU$100 million annual consolidated revenues to submit annual modern slavery statement. The construction industry is considered as one sector most vulnerable to modern slavery. This research aims to identify the policies, systems and processes that will affect an organisation's approach to modern slavery risk and propose a framework for assessing the readiness of entities in the construction industry to address modern slavery in their operations and supply chains. Semi-structured interviews were used as the main research method to glean industry experts’ insights and perspectives on key themes and topics. The research finds that a successful modern slavery approach includes governance, risk assessment and ongoing due diligence, risk mitigation, grievance and remediation, performance monitoring and reporting, and education and capability building. This paper details the first academic research examining the implications of modern slavery legislation on construction businesses in Australia. The research contributes to existing body of knowledge by highlighting issues and concerns specific to modern slavery in an organisation's operation and supply chains. Focusing on the construction industry, this research opens up a dialogue on taking sector-specific approach in modern slavery risk detection and remediation. The research results offer practical reference for entities in the construction industry to plan, formulate and implement policies, systems, and processes to identify and mitigate modern slavery risk, so as to satisfy legislative requirements and to achieve social sustainability goals.