The Salvation Army has welcomed an Australian Government announcement that victims of forced marriage will have access to support without the requirement they help bring the pertrators to justice.
Under the initiative, the Federal Government will grant access of up to 200 days of support through its Support for Trafficked People Program without the requirement they contribute to a criminal investigation or prosecution.
Announcing a 12 month trial of the initiative – which will be implemented and evaluated by the Red Cross, Alex Hawke, Assistant Minister for Home Affairs, also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to introduce a Modern Slavery Act into Parliament with expectations it will be enacted by the end of the year.
Jenny Stanger, national manager at The Salvation Army’s Freedom Partnership to End Modern Slavery, says the trial will provide greater protection for victims of modern slavery.
“We welcome the announcement regarding de-linking of support for people facing forced marriage,” Mrs Stanger said. “In particular, young people should not have to face the trauma and emotional turmoil of providing statements against their closest family members in order to get support.”
The announcement was made at a modern slavery seminar organised by The Salvation Army Freedom Partnership to End Modern Slavery and the Walk Free Foundation held at Parliament House.
There are estimated to be more than 4,300 people enslaved in Australia.
