Modern Slavery Statement for Footscray Carpet Cleaners

Footscray Carpet Cleaners is committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and with respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the actions we take to identify, prevent, and address risks of modern slavery within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery can include forced labour, debt bondage, human trafficking, child labour, and other forms of exploitation. As a local carpet cleaning business, we understand that even service-based organisations must remain vigilant and proactive in protecting vulnerable people.

Our zero-tolerance policy is central to this commitment. Footscray Carpet Cleaners will not knowingly engage with any person, supplier, or contractor involved in modern slavery practices. This applies to recruitment, procurement, subcontracting, equipment sourcing, and the services we use to support our work. We expect all personnel to act with integrity and to uphold fair working conditions, lawful pay, and safe employment practices. Any breach of this policy may result in termination of the relationship and further review.

To support this policy, Footscray carpet cleaning operations rely on clear expectations for suppliers and contractors. We assess the nature of each relationship, the level of risk involved, and the countries or sectors from which goods or services may be sourced. Where risk is identified, we take practical steps to reduce it through due diligence, document checks, and ongoing monitoring. This approach helps us better understand where potential issues may arise and reinforces our commitment to ethical service delivery.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

The business conducts supplier audits and reviews where appropriate, especially for higher-risk categories such as cleaning chemicals, uniforms, tools, transport support, and outsourced labour. These audits may include checking labour practices, reviewing written policies, confirming compliance with workplace laws, and requesting evidence of responsible sourcing. Footscray carpet cleaners also expects suppliers to cooperate with requests for information and to take corrective action if any concern is identified. We view audits not as a one-time event but as part of a continuous improvement process.

Our procurement decisions are informed by risk-based screening. We aim to work with suppliers who share our values and can demonstrate that their own operations are free from exploitation. Where a supplier cannot meet our standards immediately, we may offer a limited opportunity to improve, provided there is genuine commitment and measurable progress. However, if concerns remain unresolved, we will consider ending the business relationship. This is how Footscray Carpet Cleaners maintains accountability across its supply chain.

The company also trains relevant staff to recognise warning signs, including unusual wage arrangements, lack of employment records, restricted worker movement, or signs that workers are being controlled by third parties. While our business is small, we believe awareness is essential. Training helps staff understand how to ask responsible questions, how to document concerns, and how to escalate potential issues without delay. In this way, modern slavery awareness becomes part of everyday decision-making.

Reporting Channels and Investigation

Anyone who suspects a breach of this statement can raise it through our internal reporting channels. Concerns may be reported to management directly, in writing, or through a confidential internal process designed to protect privacy and encourage safe disclosure. Reports can be made without fear of retaliation. We treat all concerns seriously and will investigate promptly, fairly, and with discretion. If a report suggests immediate risk to any person, urgent action will be taken.

All reports are assessed to determine the facts, the seriousness of the issue, and whether further action is required. This may include interviewing relevant parties, reviewing supplier records, pausing work with a supplier, or engaging specialist support where needed. Our objective is to respond responsibly and to protect those who may be vulnerable. Footscray Carpet Cleaners will not ignore potential indicators of exploitation, even if they arise indirectly through a supplier or contractor.

We also maintain records of concerns, investigations, outcomes, and remedial measures so we can identify patterns over time. These records help strengthen our control environment and improve future decision-making. Where appropriate, we may require suppliers to implement corrective actions, submit evidence of improvement, or undergo further review before continuing to work with us.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with applicable legal and ethical obligations. The review considers changes to our business structure, supplier base, risk exposure, and any incidents or lessons learned during the year. We use the review process to update procedures, improve training, and refine supplier oversight. The annual review is a key safeguard in keeping Footscray Carpet Cleaners accountable and proactive.

Where improvements are identified, we will document action plans and assign responsibility for implementation. This may include strengthening due diligence, revising purchasing requirements, enhancing audit frequency, or improving staff awareness. We also monitor the effectiveness of our zero-tolerance policy to ensure it is not simply a statement of intent but a practical standard that shapes behaviour across the business.

In summary, Footscray Carpet Cleaners is committed to preventing modern slavery through a clear zero-tolerance policy, supplier audits, secure reporting channels, and an annual review process. We believe ethical conduct is essential to sustainable business. By remaining alert, transparent, and responsible, we aim to protect human dignity throughout our operations and supply relationships.