Ensuring a fair supply chain

Introduction

Legal Aid NSW is firmly committed to respecting and protecting human rights. We have a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery.

Modern slavery describes situations where an offender undermines a victim’s right to freedom using coercion, threats or deception. It is a human rights violation and a serious crime.

Legal Aid NSW supports the NSW Government’s commitment to addressing modern slavery through the Modern Slavery Act 2018 (NSW). The act recognises modern slavery as a severe violation of human rights that encompasses exploitative practices like human trafficking, slavery, servitude, forced labour, debt bondage and forced marriage.

The Anti-slavery Commissioner did not raise any issues related to our obligations under the Modern Slavery Act 2018 (NSW) with Legal Aid NSW during this reporting period.

Our key commitments

Zero-tolerance approach

Legal Aid NSW maintains a zero-tolerance stance on all forms of modern slavery, reflecting our commitment to uphold human rights and eliminate exploitative practices.

Support for legislation

We support the Modern Slavery Act 2018 (NSW) and the robust legal framework it provides to address and penalise modern slavery practices. We use the act to guide our actions as an organisation.

Our key actions

As required by the Modern Slavery Act 2018 (NSW), Legal Aid NSW has taken reasonable steps to combat modern slavery within its operations and supply chains.

These steps reflect a comprehensive approach to prevention, identification, mitigation, remedy and reporting. In taking these steps, we are actively working toward creating a safer and more ethical operational environment, reducing the risk of modern slavery and fostering a culture of awareness and responsibility.

Forthcoming modern slavery policy

We have developed a modern slavery policy, set to be approved and implemented in the 2024–25 financial year, that provides a formal framework for addressing modern slavery issues.

Awareness training

Procurement staff have undertaken training on modern slavery, and Legal Aid NSW executives have participated in an awareness session conducted by the NSW Anti-slavery Commissioner.

Training aims to ensure that staff are aware of the risks and indicators of modern slavery and understand their role in mitigating these risks.

Comprehensive risk assessment

Legal Aid NSW has conducted a thorough risk assessment to identify potential modern slavery risks within its operations and supply chain. Assessments help to pinpoint areas where the risk of modern slavery is high and additional controls may be needed.

Increased due diligence for high-risk procurements

Legal Aid NSW has implemented enhanced due diligence procedures for procurements involving a high inherent risk of modern slavery. These thoroughly vet suppliers and contractors to ensure they do not engage in modern slavery.