Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Oakleigh Park

Gardeners Oakleigh Park is committed to conducting its gardening and grounds maintenance services in a manner that respects human rights and promotes ethical labour practices. This Modern Slavery Statement explains our approach to identifying, preventing and addressing modern slavery and human trafficking risks within our operations and supply chains.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

We have a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, servitude and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with or support any organisation that is involved in these practices. All staff, contractors and suppliers are expected to uphold this commitment and to act in a way that is consistent with our values and legal obligations.

Our management team is responsible for promoting a culture in which exploitation is never acceptable, regardless of commercial pressures. Any breach of our zero-tolerance policy is treated as a serious matter that may result in termination of employment or cessation of business with the relevant supplier or contractor.

Our Operations and Supply Chains

Gardeners Oakleigh Park provides gardening, landscaping and grounds care services to domestic, commercial and community clients. Our direct workforce is relatively small and is engaged in local operations, which enables close oversight of working conditions. However, we recognise that modern slavery risks can arise in the supply of tools, equipment, plants, protective clothing and ancillary services.

We aim to work with reputable suppliers that demonstrate strong ethical standards. Where possible, we source from suppliers that can evidence compliance with applicable labour legislation and good working practices. We remain aware that risks can exist at multiple tiers of the supply chain and are committed to continual improvement in our due diligence processes.

Supplier Standards and Audits

Suppliers are expected to operate in line with the principles set out in this Modern Slavery Statement. We seek assurances that suppliers prohibit forced and compulsory labour, ensure that employment is freely chosen, and provide safe working conditions. We expect them to pay workers in accordance with local law, respect working hour limits and prevent any form of abuse, harassment or discrimination.

We reserve the right to review and, where appropriate, audit suppliers that present a higher risk profile. This may include requesting information on labour practices, workforce composition, recruitment methods and grievance mechanisms. Where non-compliance is identified, we will work with suppliers to implement corrective action within a defined timeframe. Persistent or serious breaches may result in the ending of the commercial relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Oakleigh Park encourages all workers, suppliers and other stakeholders to raise concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices without fear of retaliation. Any individual who becomes aware of or suspects exploitation in our operations or supply chains is encouraged to report this to a manager or senior member of the business.

All reports will be treated seriously and handled sensitively. Concerns will be investigated promptly, and appropriate action will be taken where issues are substantiated. We will protect, as far as practicable, the confidentiality of individuals who raise concerns in good faith and will not tolerate victimisation of any person for doing so.

Training and Awareness

We recognise the importance of awareness in preventing modern slavery. Relevant staff are informed about the signs of exploitation, the requirements of this statement and the procedures for reporting concerns. As our business grows or our risk profile changes, we will consider additional training initiatives to strengthen our ability to identify and respond to modern slavery risks.

Monitoring, Governance and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the leadership of Gardeners Oakleigh Park. We monitor our operations and key supplier relationships to identify emerging risks and to ensure that our policies remain effective in practice. Where gaps are identified, we will seek to address them through revised procedures, improved due diligence or enhanced engagement with suppliers.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to reflect changes in our business, legal requirements and best practice standards. The review considers any incidents reported, audit findings, supplier performance and feedback from staff and stakeholders. Following each review, we will update the statement and our internal procedures as necessary to strengthen our response to modern slavery and human trafficking.

This statement has been approved by the management of Gardeners Oakleigh Park and applies to the financial year to which it relates.