Travellers passing through Australia’s busiest airports this month will notice a powerful new message: “If you suspect it, report it.”
Perth Airport has joined Melbourne and Sydney in the united campaign to raise awareness of human trafficking and modern slavery across the country.
Led by global anti-trafficking organisation A21, the Can You See Me? campaign uses digital screens and billboards to help travellers recognise the signs of human trafficking. Each display features QR codes linking to videos and resources on how to identify and report suspected cases.
Together, Melbourne, Sydney and Perth airports handle around 77 per cent of Australia’s international traffic – a reach of more than 8.5 million travellers this November alone.
“Melbourne Airport was proud to be helping shine a light on a crime that is often hidden in plain sight,” Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus said.
“We hope that having three of Australia’s major international gateways join forces with A21 will help tackle this insidious crime,” she said.
“By providing our passengers and the airport workforce with the information they need to recognise and report the signs of human trafficking, this campaign will help save lives.”
Reports of human trafficking to the Australian Federal Police (AFP) have nearly doubled in the past five years, with 420 cases recorded in 2024–25. The rise highlights both an increase in exploitation and growing public awareness.
Since launching globally, A21’s campaign has reached more than 3.4 billion people, with visibility from Times Square to Heathrow.
“Every person deserves to travel safely, without fear of exploitation,” Sydney Airport CEO Scott Charlton said.
“Expanding this campaign from east to west shows what’s possible when Australia’s gateways work together on an issue that affects people everywhere.
“This partnership with Melbourne airport and Perth airport alongside A21 builds on last year’s success and ensures millions of passengers see a message that could keep a life safe.”
Locally, Sydney Airport’s Rotary Clubs will again collect donations throughout November to support A21’s mission to end modern slavery and help survivors rebuild their lives.
KARRYON UNPACKS: Australia’s airports are taking their fight against human trafficking to new heights, and it’s a cause every traveller can get behind. With Perth joining Melbourne and Sydney, the Can You See Me? campaign now spans the nation’s major gateways, reminding all of us to keep our eyes open and our conscience switched on.
