Customs Amendment (Banning Goods Produced By Forced Labour) Bill 2022

High-Level Summary

Amends the Customs Act 1901 to prohibit the importation into Australia of goods that are produced in whole or in part by forced labour.


Summary
The bill amends the Customs Act 1901 by introducing a new section, 50A, which enacts an absolute prohibition on the importation of goods produced wholly or partially by forced labor as defined in the Criminal Code. Forced labor is defined by the Criminal Code as labor performed under coercion, threat, or deception, where the victim does not feel free to cease providing labor or services. The amendment also updates subsection 51(1) to classify such goods as prohibited imports under the Customs Act. The bill supports international conventions against forced labor and modern slavery, reflecting Australia's commitment to human rights, and applies to goods imported on or after the commencement of the Schedule.

Argument For
Normative Bases
  1. Non-Discrimination
  2. Discrimination / Human Rights

The bill should be supported because it aligns with Australia's commitment to human rights and international conventions against forced labor and slavery. By banning goods produced through forced labor, the bill actively discourages practices that exploit vulnerable populations, including children, and perpetuate human rights abuses [Judgment]. It also sends a strong global message that Australia will not support or engage in trade that benefits from such inhumane practices, potentially prompting other nations to follow suit and strengthening international efforts to combat modern slavery.


Argument Against
Normative Bases
  1. Propertarianism
  2. Utilitarian Ground Truth

Critics might argue that the bill could lead to complications in trade relations, particularly with countries where the supply chains are complex and hard to verify. Implementing such a ban could also potentially increase costs for businesses that need to ensure their imports are compliant, leading to higher prices for consumers [Judgment]. Additionally, there might be concerns about the effectiveness of enforcing the ban and whether it might inadvertently harm workers in countries where forced labor is prevalent, by disrupting their only available economic activities.


Date:

2022-11-22

Status:

Before Senate

Sponsor:

STEELE-JOHN, Sen Jordon

Portfolio:

Unspecified

Categories:

Discrimination / Human Rights, Trade Policy, National Security

Timeline:
22/11/2022

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