Sydney Airport and Melbourne Airport join forces to fight human trafficking

Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) and Melbourne Airport (MEL) have joined forces to launch a marketing campaign to combat human trafficking in the country.

The country’s two largest international airports have partnered with anti-human trafficking organization, A21, to run a campaign called, “Can You See Me?”, with guidance and input from the Australian Federal Police (AFP).

The initiative aims to educate people on how to recognize and report the signs of human trafficking.   

Modern slavery is a growing issue in Australia, with the AFP receiving 382 reports in 2023/2024 financial year, a 12% increase from the previous year. Cases include trafficking, forced marriage, sexual exploitation, domestic servitude, debt bondage, forced labor, deceptive recruitment and organ trafficking. 

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

Since November 4, 2024, digital screens and billboards at both Sydney and Melbourne airports have been displaying images and messages, stating that slavery still exists and urging people: “If you suspect it, report it.” 

QR codes also link to videos and information on how to identify and stop these crimes. Digital screens in key areas also display these messages, including check-in counters, gates and baggage carousels.  

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

While the “Can You See Me?” campaign runs over the next month, close to seven million passengers are expected to pass through both the domestic and international terminals at the two airports.  

“Every person who steps through our 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,” Lorie Argus, Melbourne Airport CEO said in a statement.

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

“The increase in reported cases of human trafficking and slavery in Australia highlights the urgent need for action,” said Acting Commander against Human Exploitation Frank Rayner from 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 travelers and frontline airport staff to recognise the signs and report suspected cases will help disrupt these crimes and protect vulnerable people,” Rayner continued. 

According to the AFP, common indicators of human trafficking include:

Showing signs their movements are being controlled or are under constant surveillance by another person

Appearing to be under the control of someone else and reluctant to interact with others

Not having access to personal identification such as a passport or other travel documents

Appearing frightened, withdrawn, or showing signs of physical or psychological abuse

Having no access or control of their earnings

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