This statement is made pursuant to the Modern Slavery Act 2018 on behalf of Hicksons. The statement sets out the steps the business has taken to ensure that slavery, human trafficking and exploitation is not taking place in our supply chains, or in any part of our business.
Managing Partner statement
We understand the suffering, anguish and affliction which modern slavery, human trafficking and exploitation causes. We recognise all businesses have a responsibility to be aware as to whether modern slavery, human trafficking and exploitation is occurring within their supply chains.
Hicksons takes a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human rights violations and all fraudulent behaviour. This includes not only our own organisation but those within our supply chains as well as our business partners.
Our business
Hicksons is an Australian based business. We are a commercial law firm who assists government, organisations and individuals throughout Australia and in Asia by delivering legal and commercial advice, services and solutions.
Our supply chains include office-related services (including but not limited to property space, facilities management, hospitality and catering), recruitment and employment agencies and the purchase of goods including office furniture and supplies and IT software and equipment.
We are committed to utmost ethical and professional standards and comply with all laws, regulations and rules relevant to the business.
Corporate social responsibility is a part of our culture; our corporate vision focuses on clients, people and the community. We expect the same level of commitment from our suppliers and business partners.
Relevant policies
The firm is committed to ensuring we do not benefit from any external supplier who may engage in human trafficking, slavery or exploitation. The policies (supported by the Partners and led by the COO) guide this commitment.
Our approach
Our working practices respect and uphold human rights for our partners, employees and contractors.
We identify risks of modern slavery, human trafficking and exploitation within our business and our supply chain by:
- undertaking due diligence on all relevant suppliers by exploring relevant public business information;
- refusing to purchase goods or services from companies that do not commit to compliance with the principles set out in the Modern Slavery Act 2018;
- upholding our Code of Conduct statement which identifies ethical business practices and protocols for our partners and staff;
- utilising our learning management system to monitor education on relevant topics such as slavery, discrimination, harassment. This education is mandatory for all Partners, employees and contractors; and
- auditing our suppliers annually to ensure that these suppliers are committed to modern slavery, human trafficking and exploitation principles.
Approval
This statement has been approved for and on behalf of the Partners of Hicksons.
Stewart Cameron
Managing Partner