The UN Global Compact Network Australia (UNGCNA) welcomes you to Australia’s thirteenth annual cross-sector forum dedicated to advancing business respect for human rights.

We are operating in a period of profound transition. The race to secure critical minerals, the scale-up of renewable energy, the physical impacts of climate change and the rapid adoption of AI are reshaping both the business environment and the human rights risk landscape. The pace of change is faster than frameworks, institutions and societies can adapt. At the same time, the modern slavery legal landscape in Australia and other jurisdictions is evolving, with new and forthcoming obligations, enforcement mechanisms and expectations of business.

The 2026 Australian Dialogue on Business and Human Rights will create space for leaders from the business and investment communities, government and other stakeholder groups to work together to make sense of the changing landscape and identify promising pathways forward to safeguard human rights and human dignity throughout this period of transition. Expect frank, constructive and forward-looking discussions that sharpen thinking and action, support meaningful cross-stakeholder engagement and include fresh perspectives.

Across the day, we will unpack:

The role of business in building resilient, connected societies in an era of transformation
The use of strategic litigation and investor stewardship to drive stronger accountability
How to embed respect for people and human rights in transition-related decision-making
What ‘good’ regulation looks like to drive more effective modern slavery risk management
How to implement a true ‘risk-based’ approach and strengthen supply chain collaboration
Immediate priorities to safeguard human rights in the technology transition

The 2026 Australian Dialogue on Business and Human Rights has been made possible with the kind support of Corrs Chambers Westgarth.

This event will be held under Chatham House rule.

Reminder:

UNGCNA participants are entitled to one complementary ticket per organisation as part of UNGCNA membership (list reviewed for eligibility). Additional participant tickets are available for purchase at a discounted rate.

Contact us for more information.

Contact the host of UN Global Compact Network Australia | 2026 Australian Dialogue on Business and Human Rights