Journey from exploitation to empowerment
Michael* is a kind-hearted young adult who arrived in Australia full of hope, for education, opportunity, and the chance to support his family back home, who were living in poverty. Driven by love and responsibility, he was determined to work hard, learn, and build a brighter future for those he cares about most.
Yet, the reality he encountered was vastly different. Not long after his arrival, Michael found himself trapped in a situation of labour exploitation. Isolated, threatened, and unsure of where to turn, he faced circumstances that no one should ever have to endure. Like many others affected by modern slavery in Australia, his freedom was taken, and his trust was deeply damaged.
Thankfully, his story began to shift. A concerned member of the community recognised the signs and took action. With the involvement of the Australian Federal Police, Michael was referred to The Freedom Hub. This marked the beginning of his journey toward healing, empowerment, and renewed hope.
Since joining our Survivor School, Michael has made remarkable progress. With consistent support through small group classes, a laptop, one-on-one coaching, and digital literacy assistance, he has slowly started to rebuild his confidence. Just as importantly, he has found encouragement and understanding within a community of peers who have walked similar paths. The patience and commitment of our volunteer Education Coaches have helped him take steady steps forward, each one a victory in itself.
Most recently, Michael reached a significant milestone: he began casual employment. While it may not be his dream job yet, it represents something much more profound. It is a symbol of his resilience, a step toward financial independence, and a powerful move closer to the freedom he deserves.
AFP warns of the rise of forced labour and exploitation in Australia
The Australian Federal Police has observed a significant increase in reports of forced labour and exploitation, as criminal networks continue to target offshore workers through deceptive recruitment practices designed to traffic them into Australia.
In recognition of the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery on 2 December 2024, the AFP raised awareness about how these networks prey on vulnerable individuals seeking employment opportunities. Many are lured with false promises and ultimately subjected to forced labour, exploitation, and debt bondage, all serious forms of human trafficking.
Since 2018, the AFP has received 247 reports of forced labour and exploitation, with incidents rising by nearly 140% over the past six years.
*Reports of forced labour and exploitation received by the AFP between 2018 to 2024 (financial years).
2018/19 FY 2019/20 FY 2020/21 FY 2021/22 FY 2022/23 FY 2023/24 FY Total 29 29 35 42 43 69 247
The AFP received 382 reports of human trafficking related offences in the 2023-2024 financial year.
These reports include:
- 109 reports of human trafficking (inclusive of entry, exit and child trafficking);
- 91 reports of forced marriage;
- 69 reports of forced labour;
- 59 reports of sexual exploitation;
- 21 reports of domestic servitude;
- 10 reports of debt bondage;
- 16 reports of deceptive recruitment;
- Four reports of slavery;
- Two reports of harbouring; and
- One report of organ trafficking.
You can read more about it here.
At The Freedom Hub, we celebrate all the wins, big and small, and this one means a lot.
Michael’s* story is one of quiet courage and a reminder of why we do this work.
*Name changed to protect identity
You can support the work we do at The Freedom Hub by giving a tax-deductible donation. We are privately funded, so we can work with vulnerable people without government red tape, providing the individual success they are striving for.
https://thefreedomhub.org/donate
Note: The Freedom Hub are running Fivers for Survivors for UN Day Against Trafficking. Any organisation, school, or group can join this. Find out more at: https://thefreedomhub.org/fivers-for-survivors
