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Meet Fatima, who found herself trapped in a nightmare. Employed as a housekeeper at a consulate in Sydney, Fatima was subjected to forced labour for months without receiving any wages. Isolated within the consulate’s walls, she endured the harsh reality of modern slavery.
Through social media, Fatima sought help and connected with a police officer who assisted her. After her escape, a community refugee organisation recognised her situation and sought the help of Australian Catholic Religious Against Trafficking of Humans (ACRATH) to provide further support.
ACRATH offered essential assistance to Fatima and connected her with a law firm that provided pro-bono legal representation. Fatima also joined the ACRATH Companionship Program, where she received ongoing support from a trained and dedicated Companion. Through this program, she found her strength and encouragement to rebuild her life.
Fatima pursued education by enrolling in TAFE courses. Her journey of recovery and empowerment has been long, but she has steadily reclaimed her independence and her future. The issue of forced labour remains a significant concern within the Australian Federal Police (AFP). Each report represents a real person with a story not unlike Fatima’s—people who need help.
Fatima’s story is of hope and a reminder of the impact that coordinated community efforts can have. Support of ACRATH enables them to continue providing critical assistance to victim/survivors like Fatima as they reclaim their lives.
