Summarised by Centrist
National and Labour MPs have advanced modern slavery legislation after ACT declined to support it in Cabinet, using a parliamentary rule that allows a member’s bill to bypass the ballot with the backing of 61 non-executive MPs.
It is the first time the rule has been used.
The bill is being co-sponsored by National MP Greg Fleming and Labour MP Camilla Belich. “ACT weren’t supportive of it, which is why Camilla and I have worked through this route,” he said.
The legislation would apply to companies operating in New Zealand with annual revenue above $100 million. It requires those companies to report on modern slavery risks in their supply chains and lodge those reports on a public register.
The bill introduces civil penalties of up to $600,000 for failing to report or for making false or misleading statements, potential liability for directors and senior managers, ministerial oversight, and a formal role for the Human Rights Commission.
There would be no transition period before the requirements take effect. The bill also allows for future reviews, including consideration of an anti slavery commissioner.
ACT leader David Seymour asked why companies earning less than $100 million would be excluded if the goal was to address slavery. He also argued the reporting regime would impose heavy compliance costs, requiring businesses to trace complex global supply chains.
Seymour argued the bill was a symbolic reporting regime similar to repealed climate disclosures.
Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden said New Zealand had already met its international obligations.
Image: Bruno Casonato
