A Parliamentary First: Modern Slavery Bill Bypasses the Ballot
In an unexpected team up, National and Labour MPs have jointly invoked Standing Order 288 to advance a bill on modern slavery. The move came after ACT refused support, blocking the progression as a government bill. The rule allows a member’s bill backed by at least 61 non-executive MPs to bypass the ballot process. This move marks the first time the rule has been used.
The bill establishes a mandatory reporting regime requiring large entities generating over $100 million in annual revenue to identify, assess, and disclose modern slavery risks within their operations and supply chains. It introduces enforceable statutory obligations, including fines of up to $200,000 for non-reporting or false reporting and civil penalties of up to $600,000. The bill also contemplates director and senior-manager liability, public naming of non-compliant entities, and the creation of a publicly accessible register of statements.
The bill further strengthens institutional oversight by potentially enabling an Anti-Slavery Commissioner and expanding the Human Rights Commission’s role, aligning New Zealand’s regulatory framework with international partners such as the UK and EU.
The bill was lodged this morning and will be introduced to Parliament on 10 February 2026.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is general in nature and not intended as a substitute for specific professional advice on any matter and should not be relied upon for that purpose.
