Today, investors, regulators and customers expect companies to take real action on human rights, including preventing forced labour and modern slavery in global supply chains. This includes implementing robust due diligence frameworks aligned with international standards to prevent, identify, and address human rights risks. 

The Responsible Business Alliance (RBA), one of the world’s largest industry coalitions focused on supply chain sustainability, brings together more than 650 global companies committed to strengthening responsible sourcing practices. Through shared standards and practical due diligence tools, the RBA supports companies in addressing complex challenges such as forced labour, responsible mineral sourcing, and environmental risks across global supply chains. At the same time, Australian businesses—many of which operate extensively across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond—are navigating a rapidly changing and inconsistent regulatory landscape as reforms globally seek to strengthen corporate accountability and supply chain transparency. 

This meeting will bring together government representatives, industry leaders, and civil society experts to explore how companies can implement effective HRDD in practice while preparing for emerging global requirements, including mandatory due diligence laws and forced labour import restrictions.  

The event will discuss alignment with international frameworks such as the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPBHR) and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises and share practical insights from companies implementing site-level due diligence across their supply chains. 

This event is co-hosted with Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). DFAT undertakes international engagement on responsible business conduct, ethical supply chains, and regional economic cooperation, and promotes alignment with international standards such as the UNGPBHR. DFAT also supports the implementation of Australia’s Modern Slavery Act, including the recent review process. As a key bridge between government, industry, and international partners, DFAT brings valuable policy insight, regional perspective, and convening power—helping to foster meaningful dialogue, share best practices, and encourage businesses to strengthen their due diligence efforts to address human rights risks.