Modern Slavery Statement for Footscray Storage

Footscray Storage is committed to conducting business with integrity, respect, and accountability. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out our approach to preventing modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, child labour, debt bondage, and other forms of exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that even businesses with a limited direct workforce can be exposed to risk through procurement, contractors, labour hire arrangements, cleaning services, transport, and the manufacture or distribution of goods. Our commitment is guided by a zero-tolerance policy toward any practice that exploits people or undermines human dignity.

We understand that modern slavery risks can exist in many sectors and may be hidden within complex supply chains. Footscray Storage therefore applies a risk-based framework to identify, assess, and address potential exposure. This includes reviewing supplier country of origin, labour practices, subcontracting models, and the nature of services provided. Where higher-risk indicators are identified, we require additional due diligence, clearer contractual protections, and closer monitoring. Our aim is not only compliance, but continuous improvement in ethical procurement and responsible operations.

This statement applies to our storage operations, associated maintenance activities, outsourced services, and goods procurement. We expect all employees, contractors, and suppliers to uphold lawful and ethical standards. Any form of coercion, deception, withholding of wages, restriction of movement, passport retention, or forced overtime is unacceptable. Our internal policies make clear that breaches may lead to corrective action, contract suspension, or termination. By embedding these expectations into everyday decisions, Footscray Storage strengthens its commitment to responsible business conduct.

Supplier Oversight and Audits

Supplier management is a central part of our modern slavery response. Before engaging key suppliers, we seek information on ownership, workforce conditions, recruitment practices, and subcontracting arrangements. For suppliers presenting elevated risk, we may conduct supplier audits, request evidence of working conditions, and review policies relating to wages, working hours, grievance handling, and worker freedom. These audits may be announced or unannounced depending on the risk profile and the nature of the relationship.

If concerns arise during a review or audit, we expect the supplier to implement prompt corrective actions with clear deadlines. Persistent non-compliance is taken seriously and may result in disengagement. We also encourage suppliers to apply the same standards to their own vendors, creating a wider culture of accountability. Through these measures, Footscray Storage aims to reduce the likelihood that labour exploitation is hidden within the supply chain and to support ethical sourcing at every stage.

Reporting Channels and Worker Protection

Footscray Storage maintains reporting channels that allow concerns about suspected modern slavery to be raised safely and without fear of retaliation. Reports may be made internally through management, or through established grievance processes used by contractors and suppliers. We encourage prompt reporting of any suspicious behaviour, including signs of coercion, unsafe living conditions, document retention, intimidation, or unusual recruitment fees. All reports are treated seriously, assessed confidentially, and investigated in line with applicable legal and procedural requirements.

Protection from victimisation is essential to the credibility of our approach. Anyone raising a concern in good faith will be supported and protected from adverse treatment. Where appropriate, we will work with suppliers to improve worker access to information, grievance mechanisms, and fair treatment. We believe that open and trusted reporting structures help expose risks early, before harm escalates. This is an important part of our broader commitment to ethical operations and respect for human rights.

Our training and awareness efforts help staff understand how modern slavery can appear in practice. Employees involved in purchasing, facilities management, and contractor oversight receive guidance on spotting warning signs and escalating concerns. We also promote responsible decision-making when selecting vendors, negotiating contracts, and renewing service arrangements. In this way, the Footscray Storage modern slavery commitment becomes part of routine business practice rather than a document that sits on its own.

This statement will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with current risks, legal expectations, and operational changes. The review will consider supplier audit outcomes, reported concerns, training needs, and any lessons learned from investigations or procurement activity. Where improvements are identified, we will update controls, refine procedures, and strengthen accountability. Footscray Storage is dedicated to continuous improvement and to playing its part in eliminating modern slavery from business supply chains.