"One political bright spot", 15 December 2018

There was at least one bright spot on Capital Hill....

It was the passing of Australia's first federal law to address modern slavery...was an exercise in genuine bipartisanship....

It wasn't just the senate doing its job, but a strong and collaborative civil society too.

...The bill was improved as it went through the Senate (as many bills are), with both Coalition and Labor senators working to make it better.

...Labor asked for an independent modern slavery commissioner and civil penalties for companies that failed to report. The act provides for a review after three years, with a view to establishing penalties if it is found necessary.

Labor has promised penalties and an independent commissioner should it win office.

...A common-good policy change is possible. It often takes many years. It puts people first and recognises that half a cake is better than no cake at all.

...The new law sends a ray of hope in this season heralded as one of hope. It is well timed as it nudges us this Christmas to consider if the gifts we buy are slave-free.

Why not ask retailers what they know about the manufacture of a product you're thinking of buying? Choose to purchase a gift that is made without slave labour and in doing so, give a gift that beckons a better world.