In an Australian first, Sydney Airport and Melbourne Airport have joined forces to launch a public awareness campaign to fight human trafficking.
The country’s two largest international airports have partnered with anti-human trafficking organisation, A21, to run the “Can You See Me?” campaign, with guidance and input from the Australian Federal Police (AFP).
This initiative will educate people on how to recognise and report the signs of human trafficking.
From today, digital screens and billboards at both airports will display images and messages, stating that slavery still exists and urging people: “If you suspect it, report it.” QR codes also link to videos and information on how to identify and stop these crimes. Digital screens in key areas will display these messages, including check-in counters, gates and baggage carousels.
Combined, Sydney and Melbourne airports cater for 68%1 of Australia’s total international passenger traffic. While the “Can You See Me?” campaign runs over the next month, close to 7 million passengers are expected to pass through both the domestic and international terminals at the two airports.
A21 has rolled out this program in high-profile spaces worldwide—from Times Square billboards, screens at Heathrow Airport, train stations in Thailand to inflatable screens in vulnerable Cambodian communities—reaching an impressive 3.4 billion people globally.
Modern slavery is a growing issue in Australia, with the AFP receiving 382 reports in 2023/2024 financial year, a 12 per cent increase on the previous year. Cases include trafficking, forced marriage, sexual exploitation, domestic servitude, debt bondage, forced labour, deceptive recruitment and organ trafficking. The Global Slavery Index estimates 41,000 people in Australia live under conditions of modern slavery.
A united response to human trafficking
Scott Charlton, Sydney Airport CEO said: “Every person who steps through our airport deserves to travel safely, without fear of exploitation.”
“We deeply value the AFP’s dedication to catching and prosecuting traffickers and the A21 ‘Can You See Me?’ campaign will amplify their efforts by raising critical public awareness and support.
