One of these important changes allows for the protection of a child complainant who is not a witness in a proceeding, including in serious sexual exploitation, human trafficking, slavery and slavery-like practices such as forced marriage proceedings.

In addition, the changes allow for appropriate protections and supports to be in place to ensure vulnerable witnesses are in a position to present their testimony to the court whereby the risk of intimidation, trauma, fear and/or undue public embarrassment are minimised.

LCA president Fiona McLeod SC (pictured) said amending the laws was an essential step towards “bringing slavery and human trafficking out of the shadows”.

“Slavery is very much a reality in modern Australia and across the globe but to most Australians slavery and human trafficking are invisible,” Ms McLeod said.

“Amending Australian laws so that extra protections and supports are afforded to those who need it the most — the vulnerable and the abused, especially children — is a very important step.

“We commend the federal government’s intent in this crucial area. We know there are people right now in Australia being exploited and controlled through intimidation. We need to do everything we can to encourage potential witnesses and protect those who do come forward.”