Modern Slavery Statement — Garden Maintenance Victoria

Garden Maintenance Victoria publishes this Modern Slavery Statement to affirm a clear, company-wide responsibility to prevent and address modern slavery, forced labour and human trafficking risks in our operations and supply chains. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of exploitation and make continuous efforts to identify, assess and mitigate risk across gardening, horticulture and grounds management services.

We are committed to transparent reporting and practical actions. Our anti-slavery approach combines proactive supplier engagement, training for staff and contractors, and contractual requirements for partners. Our anti-slavery statement clarifies that any breach of these principles will result in immediate action, up to termination of contracts and referral to authorities where appropriate.

As part of our modern slavery and human trafficking statement, we require partners and suppliers to adhere to our Supplier Code of Conduct. That code includes expectations on working conditions, wages, freedom of movement and documentation. We conduct periodic screening of new suppliers and maintain records to demonstrate compliance with our risk-based due diligence framework.

Our zero-tolerance policy is enforced through clear governance. Senior management and the Board review reports on compliance and remediation. Garden Maintenance Vic ensures all employees are aware that exploitation is unacceptable: staff induction and refresher training include modules on identifying signs of modern slavery, safe and confidential reporting options and escalation procedures.

Supplier audits form a central part of our control environment. We perform both scheduled and unannounced audits of higher-risk suppliers, and use questionnaires, on-site inspections and documentary verification. Audit findings trigger action plans; audits are documented and progress is tracked until non-compliances are resolved.

Our procurement team applies a risk-based approach when onboarding or renewing contracts. Key risk indicators include geographic exposure, labour-intensive activities, subcontracting depth and migrant worker usage. We include contract clauses requiring compliance with anti-slavery laws and immediate notification of any suspected breaches.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We provide secure and accessible reporting channels for employees, suppliers and third parties who suspect exploitation. Reports can be made through internal hotlines, anonymous reporting tools and designated compliance officers. Reports are investigated promptly, and measures are taken to protect whistleblowers from retaliation. Confidential reporting is a cornerstone of our approach to detect and remediate risks.

Remediation and Continuous Improvement

When instances or risks of modern slavery are identified, we adopt a victim-centred approach that prioritises safety, access to support and legal compliance. Corrective actions can include supplier remediation, contract termination, worker support and referrals to specialist services. We record all incidents and lessons learned to strengthen prevention efforts.

Annual review and monitoring underpin our commitment. We conduct an annual review of this modern slavery prevention statement and all related policies, incorporating audit outcomes, report trends and stakeholder feedback. The annual review ensures evolving risks in landscaping, maintenance services and seasonal labour are addressed and that our policies remain robust.

In summary, Garden Maintenance Victoria's slavery prevention statement is implemented through a combination of policy, training, supplier audits and secure reporting channels. Our integrated approach balances prevention, detection and remediation, backed by a zero-tolerance stance and appropriate governance.

We will continue to strengthen supplier due diligence, expand targeted audits and enhance staff awareness programs. Future actions include refining risk metrics, amplifying enforcement of contractual obligations and collaborating with industry peers to raise standards across the sector.

Through ongoing monitoring, stronger supplier partnerships and transparent reporting, Garden Maintenance Victoria reaffirms its commitment to eliminate modern slavery from our operations and supply chains. This modern slavery and human trafficking statement will be reviewed annually and updated to reflect progress and emerging risks.