NZ Modern Slavery Bill Clears First Reading with Fines Up to $600k

TL;DR: New Zealand’s Modern Slavery Bill passed its first reading, proposing fines of up to $600,000 for companies that fail to report or that publish false statements, while noting an estimated 8,000 people live in modern slavery nationwide.

The bill requires large employers to disclose modern slavery risks, incidents in their operations and supply chains, and the actions they are taking to combat them.

It seeks to increase transparency and deter hidden exploitation.

Modern slavery covers forced labour, debt bondage, forced marriage, slavery and similar practices, as defined by international human rights group Walk Free.

The legislation follows years of public and business calls for stronger accountability.

Companies or individuals that refuse to report or that knowingly publish false or misleading statements could face fines up to $200,000.

Additional civil penalties may reach $600,000, with possible public naming and director liability.

An estimated 8,000 individuals in New Zealand are living in modern slavery, a figure that translates to 1.6 victims per thousand residents according to Walk Free research.

This places New Zealand among the lowest‑prevalence countries in the Asia‑Pacific region, yet the absolute number remains significant.

Supporters argue the measure will bring New Zealand in line with other like‑minded countries that share similar values, as stated by National MP Greg Fleming, a co‑sponsor of the bill.

He said the legislation reflects what New Zealanders want and what victims need.

If enacted, large firms will need to map their supply chains for forced labour, debt bondage and related abuses, and report findings publicly.

Non‑compliance could lead to substantial fines and reputational harm, encouraging proactive due diligence.

Public backing remains strong; a 2022 poll showed 81 % of New Zealanders support taking action on modern slavery.

The bill’s progress will test whether that support translates into robust legislative detail.

The bill now proceeds to the Education and Workforce Select Committee, where it will be open for public submissions. Observers will watch for any amendments and the timeline toward a potential final vote, expected later this year.