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Teaming up to help stop human trafficking at Australia’s biggest airports

November 25, 2024

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You might be wondering, how is human trafficking still happening in today’s world?

Unfortunately, human trafficking and modern slavery is a growing issue in Australia, with the Australian Federal Police receiving 382 reports last financial year, a 12 % increase on the previous year.

It’s happening in everyday places across Australia, like restaurants, nail bars, airports, in our neighbourhoods, and even within our homes.

To combat this issue, Sydney and Melbourne Airports have teamed up to launch a public awareness campaign against human trafficking.

For the first time ever, the country’s two largest international airports have partnered with anti-human trafficking organisation, A21, to run the Can You See Me? campaign, with guidance and input from the Australian Federal Police (AFP).  

This initiative has been educating people on how to recognise and report the signs of human trafficking since it launched in early November.   

Digital screens and billboards at check-in counters, gates and baggage carousels at both airports are currently displaying images and messages stating that slavery still exists and urging people: “If you suspect it, report it.”

Cases include trafficking, forced marriage, sexual exploitation, domestic servitude, debt bondage, forced labour, deceptive recruitment and organ trafficking.

Globally, data from the United Nations shows 1 in 3 victims of human trafficking is a child.

The Global Slavery Index estimates 41,000 people in Australia live under conditions of modern slavery.  

Human The Can You See Me? campaign is displayed prominently at various locations across Sydney Airport with QR codes linking to videos and information on how to identify and stop these crimes.

Combined, Sydney and Melbourne airports cater for 68% of Australia’s total international passenger traffic.

While the Can You See Me? campaign runs until 8 December 2024, close to 7 million passengers are expected to pass through both the domestic and international terminals at the two airports.  

A21 has also rolled out this program in high-profile spaces worldwide—from Times Square billboards, screens at Heathrow Airport, train stations in Thailand to inflatable screens in vulnerable Cambodian communities—reaching 3.4 billion people globally.  

Sydney Airport CEO Scott Charlton said every person who steps through Sydney Airport deserves to travel safely, without fear of exploitation.  

"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,” Mr Charlton said.  

"Sydney Airport is proud to join forces with Melbourne Airport, united in our mission to tackle the scourge of modern slavery.”  

Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus acknowledged the partnership goes beyond just airports—it’s about people’s lives. 

“By joining forces with Sydney Airport, the AFP, and A21, we’re taking a stand against modern slavery, a hidden crime that destroys people’s futures,” Mr Argus said.  

“Knowing that human trafficking is a real and daily threat, we feel a deep responsibility to protect our passengers.”  

“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."

  • Frank Rayner, Acting Commander Human Exploitation, Australian Federal Police (AFP)

Acting Commander Human Exploitation Frank Rayner from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) said the increase in reported cases of human trafficking and slavery in Australia highlights the urgent need for action.

“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,” Mr Rayner said.

“Engaging travellers and frontline airport staff to recognise the signs and report suspected cases will help disrupt these crimes and protect vulnerable people."

A21 CEO Nick Caine said everyone has a role to play in the fight against human trafficking. “Awareness is the first step, and we believe that through this campaign, more victims will be recognised and rescued,” Mr Caine said.  

“The Can You See Me? campaign has already changed lives across the world, and we are grateful to Sydney and Melbourne Airports for bringing this powerful message to Australia.”   The Rotary Clubs of Botany Randwick and Marrickville have announced that all cash collected from 11 donation boxes across Sydney Airport during November 2024 will be donated to A21 to support survivors of human trafficking.  

How can you identify human trafficking at an airport?  

Some of the signs to look out for include:

  • Avoids eye contact and social interaction 
  • Is not in control of own passport/documentation 
  • Language barrier with their travelling companions 
  • Unusually submissive
  • Unaware of their destination  
  • Clothing is not appropriate/does not fit the route of travel  

Find out more about Human trafficking and exploitation - AFP.

How to make a report

If you, or someone you know, are in immediate danger, call 000 for help.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) protect people who are victims of modern slavery and can help keep you safe. If you suspect someone is at risk, you can:

  • Make an anonymous report through Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000  
  • Call 131 AFP  
  • Report online  

Sydney Airport staff receive training on human trafficking to make a difference

Sydney Airport staff got also firsthand education about the campaign recently during a number of sessions to learn more about airport-specific signs and indicators, including how the airport security teams play a crucial role.

With passenger safety the top priority, this campaign will educate airport staff on recognising human trafficking and how to report suspicious activity.

Watch the video to understand how you can look for warning signs next time you’re flying or visiting the airport.

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