However it’s an unseen plight facing many migrant workers engaged in the agricultural sector – a vital part of the Riverina economy.

Griffith Soroptimists are hosting a community forum in partnership with the Salvation Army scheduled on for Wednesday March 26 to raise awareness and challenge perceptions of modern day slavery in our society.

Soroptimist Will Mead is helping to organise the forum in Griffith, and encourages everyone to attend.

“It’s crucial that more people are aware of how we can play a role in addressing modern slavery,” Mrs Mead said.

“It’s a huge issue and everyone needs to know more than they do now.”

This event is scheduled to support the Federal Government’s consideration of a Modern Slavery Act for Australia. 

Proposed legislation would see a focus on the conditions of workers at the bottom of supply chains, wage exploitation and slavery-like practices in the agricultural sector, particularly for migrants and backpackers.

Many people, from local residents to business owners through day-to-day activities may encounter victims of criminal exploitation and uncover activities linked to modern slavery crimes.

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Industries with high rates of mistreatment and exploitation have been identified as: agriculture, construction, hospitality, cleaning, large enterprises in the Griffith region.

The forum will have guest speakers Tonga Australia Seasonal work Association Falepaini Malle, Survivor Advocate Moe Turaga and Salvation Army’s Alison Rahill, who will be talking about:

The forum will be held at The Griffith Exies Club from 5pm until 7.30pm on Monday March 26.

RSVP here, or for further information contact Christian Mbonu on 0418 227 549.