Bupa Australia moves against modern slavery with new supplier engagement policy

Eliza Sayon Jun 27, 2023

< 1 min read

Bupa Australia has announced the development of a high-risk modern slavery supplier engagement policy. This initiative comes after the company severed ties with a New Zealand high-spend supplier due to inadequate risk controls to prevent modern slavery.

In its Modern Slavery Statement, Bupa identified that the high-risk supplier lacked sufficient controls to address modern slavery risks. While the company has removed the supplier from collaboration, they have expressed openness to reconsider future business if effective risk controls are implemented.

Bupa, which aims to engage with high-risk suppliers, intends to create a detailed high-risk supplier engagement policy in 2023, which will specify the actions the company will take when identifying such suppliers in its supply chain.

Bupa’s 2022 Modern Slavery Statement aligns with Australia’s Modern Slavery Act 2018, emphasizing the company’s commitment to identifying and addressing modern slavery risks within its operations and supply chain.

“This purpose underpins everything we do, guiding our decision-making, business operations, and stakeholder relationships, including our commitment to uphold human rights in our business and its supply chain,” Bupa APAC Acting CEO Nick Stone said.

“We know that it is vital we remain vigilant to modern slavery risks within our supply chain, as well as within our direct operations, and are committed to working alongside the Australian government, the healthcare sector, and the wider community to mitigate and address these risks.”

The company’s proactive steps toward developing a high-risk modern slavery supplier engagement policy demonstrate its commitment to corporate responsibility and ensuring ethical practices within its supply chain.

By taking a strong stance against modern slavery, Bupa Australia aims to contribute to a safer and more sustainable business environment.