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Australia’s two largest airports have joined forces on a new public awareness campaign against human trafficking.
Sydney and Melbourne Airports, which between them account for 68 per cent of the country’s international traffic, will display images on digital screens and billboards educating travellers on the signs of human trafficking and urging “if you suspect it, report it”.
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The partnership with anti-trafficking organisation A21, guided by the Australian Federal Police (AFP), will see the messages displayed in key areas such as gates, check-in counters and baggage claim, with QR codes linking to videos and information on identifying and stopping the crime.
Close to 7 million people are expected to pass through the international terminals and be exposed to the “Can You See Me?” campaign over the next month.
“Every person who steps through our airport deserves to travel safely, without fear of exploitation,” Sydney Airport CEO Scott Charlton said.
“We deeply value the AFP’s dedication to catching and prosecuting traffickers and the A21 ‘Can You See Me?’ campaign will amplify their efforts by raising critical public awareness and support.
“Sydney Airport is proud to join forces with Melbourne Airport, united in our mission to tackle the scourge of modern slavery.”
The AFP says it received 382 reports of modern slavery in the 2023–24 financial year, up 12 per cent on 2022–23, which includes cases of forced marriage, sexual exploitation, domestic servitude, forced labour, and organ trafficking among other crimes. Around 41,000 people in Australia are estimated to live under modern slavery conditions, according to the Global Slavery Index.
Travellers are being warned to look out for signs in fellow passengers including avoidance of eye contact and social interaction; lack of control over their own passport and documentation; a language barrier with travelling companions; unusually submissive behaviour; lack of awareness of their destination; and clothing that is inappropriate or does not fit their travel route.
“The increase in reported cases of human trafficking and slavery in Australia highlights the urgent need for action,” said Frank Rayner, acting commander of human exploitation for the AFP.
“Airports are key environments where traffickers seek to move victims across borders. It is important to remember that traffickers have many ways of controlling a person and a person can be exploited without physical restraint or abuse.
“Engaging travellers and frontline airport staff to recognise the signs and report suspected cases will help disrupt these crimes and protect vulnerable people.”
