We are pleased to announce the launch of a new national program to support survivors of modern slavery in Australia. Starting today, the Additional Referral Pathway allows eligible survivors to access the Support for Trafficked People Program (STPP) through referrals from Anti-Slavery Australia, in partnership with the Australian Muslim Women's Centre for Human Rights, Project Respect Australia, and Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association, and with The Salvation Army Australia as lead agency.
This pilot program, funded by the Department of Social Services (DSS) and operational from 23 July 2024 until 28 November 2025, will provide important assistance to those affected by modern slavery. The Additional Referral Pathway will be a contact point that can support people to understand their rights and support options. It can assess for indicators of modern slavery in a person’s experience, referring eligible survivors to the STPP for longer-term intensive support.
Anti-Slavery Australia has been advocating for such a scheme for almost two decades, since 2005, aiming to reduce the barriers that prevent many survivors from seeking help. Access to the STPP traditionally required a referral from the Australian Federal Police (a pathway that is still available). However, many survivors did not feel safe or willing to talk to the AFP due to fear or distrust of authorities and threats of reprisal to them or their families. This new pathway will offer a more accessible route to essential support services.
We hope that this change means more survivors will be able to access services they require.
"In a significant advancement for a survivor-centred approach, survivors of modern slavery will have greater access to support with the launch of the Additional Referral Pathway. This pilot program, funded by the Australian Government, reflects years of engagement and policy development by many, including at the Attorney-General's Department, National Roundtable on Human Trafficking and Slavery," said Anti-Slavery Australia Director, Prof. Jennifer Burn AM. "We are grateful for our partners, including The Salvation Army as the lead agency, and look forward to working closely with them. Our role at Anti-Slavery Australia is to be a referring organisation and a provider of legal advice and representation."
We are proud to be part of this important initiative, which represents a significant step forward in addressing modern slavery and supporting survivors.
For more information or to seek support, contact the Additional Referral Pathway at 1800 000 277 (1800 000 ARP) or call Anti-Slavery Australia on (02) 9514 8115.
