Senator Kate Lundy was host to the Canberra launch of the Australian chapter of ‘Collateral Damage: The Impact of Anti-Trafficking Measures on Human Rights around the World’.
The report, commissioned by the Global Alliance Against Traffic in Women (GAATW), highlights the issues of trafficking in Australia, including aspects of Australia’s visa system that expose some migrant workers to exploitation.
“Collateral Damage highlights how much work we still have to do to effectively respond to the problems of trafficking and slavery. The round table that was held today is one step toward towards achieving better results for victims and the community”, Senator Lundy said.
“This report is a timely reminder of the issues we have faced in the ACT with respect to Filipino workers in the hospitality industry. In the ACT the exploited workers on 457 visas were successful in their Federal Court cases regarding underpayment by local employers.”
“Labor supports a system of temporary work visas, especially in the context of the current skills shortage. However, Labor does not support the Howard Government’s use of temporary work visas to drive down wages and attack workplace conditions.”
“A Labor Government would require temporary work visa holders to be paid the going market rates of pay to help prevent the exploitation of migrant workers.”
Contact: Rachel Allen 0418 488 295
