The Australian Women Chamber of Commerce & Industry (AWCCI) has applauded the initiative of Walk Free founder Andrew Forrest and calls for corporations to look at their supply chains.
AWCCI executive director Yolanda Vega said, ‘Now is the perfect time for corporations to follow in the footsteps of [Andrew Forrest’s company] Fortescue and the Fortune 500. ‘Eliminating slavery from corporate supply chains is overdue, and including women business owners into corporate supply chains is also overdue.
‘This is a “must have” conversation for every business leader, procurement professional and CEO in Australia.’
International data reveal that women win only one per cent of all contracts even though they own an average of 42 per cent of all businesses around the globe. According to Walk Free, there are more than 29 million modern slaves; the majority are women.
‘If corporations include women in their supply chains, instead of using those who coerce women into slavery, the benefits would be enormous for all involved,’ said Ms Vega.
‘I understand that it is not easy or comfortable for corporations to look in their own backyard but change is urgently needed.
‘Women must be included in supply chains because it is women who invest in infrastructure, education and health.
‘Including women in supply chains is good for the bottom line, the global economy, will help put a stop to slavery and provide a more productive economy.’
See more at www.awcci.org.au and www.walkfreefoundation.org
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