As the first Anti-Slavery Ambassadors at Sydney, can you tell us a bit more about what your role is?

Dolores: As Anti-Slavery Ambassadors, we’re here to make sure more students know what modern slavery looks like in everyday life – especially how it can affect international students and young people in work or housing situations. We’re also here to advocate for a safer, more inclusive campus by helping our peers learn about their rights and how to get help.

Rollin: As Ambassadors, our role is to increase student awareness about modern slavery, equip them with the knowledge required to take preventative action, and contribute to a safer community! Our team does this through running Welcome Fest activities, creating accessible e-news and social media content, collaborating with clubs and societies and facilitating peer-to-peer workshops.

What do students misunderstand about modern slavery?

Dolores: I think a lot of students imagine modern slavery as something that only happens in other countries or only involves extreme situations. But it can be much more hidden – like being paid below minimum wage, having your passport taken away, or being forced to work unfair hours because of visa threats. Many students don’t realise these things can happen right here in Australia, or don’t realise they are actually being exploited.

Rollin: A common misconception I’ve noticed is that many students find it difficult to distinguish between modern slavery and general workplace exploitation. While both are an infringement of rights, it’s important to realise that in a case of modern slavery, workers are unable to leave due to restrictions on their freedom.

How has student awareness shifted since starting as an ambassador?

Dolores: At first, students were surprised that this was something relevant to them – some even thought we were talking about history! But now, I see more students stopping by the stall already aware of the term and wanting to learn more or share their own stories. Some students have even shared their own experiences, which helped them realise how important it is to raise awareness of modern slavery. That really made me feel like the work we’re doing is meaningful.

Why is it important to talk about modern slavery at University?

Dolores: Because uni is where many students are living independently for the first time, working casual jobs, or renting a place to stay – which are all situations where exploitation can happen. With students (especially international students) being one of the most vulnerable groups, if we can help them recognise red flags and know where to get support, that makes a huge difference.

Rollin: Modern slavery is an issue that exists all around us—embedded in the supply chains of the food we eat, the clothes we wear and everyday products we rely on. By raising awareness among university students, we can empower them to not only recognise the indicators for themselves and their peers, but also make conscious choices to reduce individual reliance on systems entrenching modern slavery.

Where can students go for help?

Dolores: Student Wellbeing is a great place to start – they’re supportive, confidential, and can connect students with the right services. You can also talk to a Peer Support Advisor – we’re trained student staff and can help guide you to support like Wellbeing or Safer Communities.

Rollin: The Peer Support Advisors are a great resource! The PSAs are a team of current students trained to help other students in a multitude of languages; available on campus and online Monday-Friday from 10 am-5 pm. If students are ever lost on campus or are simply unsure how to navigate campus support (including Student Wellbeing), the PSAs are a one-stop shop and can guide them in the right direction!