Schools are being urged to remain alert to the warning signs of forced marriage, as the Australian Federal Police (AFP) reveals it is the most commonly reported human trafficking offence in the country. In the past year alone, forced marriages accounted for nearly a quarter of all human trafficking reports, with the AFP responding to 91 cases out of a total of 382.
With many victims being of school age, educators are on the front line of identifying those at risk. AFP Human Exploitation Commander Helen Schneider said teachers and school staff are often in the best position to notice the early signs. Sudden changes in domestic arrangements, heightened anxiety when discussing family matters or holidays, or a noticeable lack of independence can all be red flags. “Things like a sudden change in domestic arrangements, heightened anxiety when talking about family matters or holidays, or having very limited independence can be early indicators of forced marriage,” she said.
Forced marriage occurs when a person is pressured, deceived, or coerced into marrying against their will. Some victims are too young to understand the implications, while others fear consequences if they refuse. Commander Schneider described it as a complex and underreported crime, as many victims are reluctant or unable to come forward. “The AFP takes a victim-centric approach to forced marriage, putting the safety and wellbeing of the victim first,” she said, emphasising that prevention remains the key focus. Raising awareness about the laws, recognising warning signs, and ensuring victims know they can seek help are all essential in tackling the issue.
The AFP’s Human Exploitation Community Officers (HECOs) work with schools and at-risk communities, delivering targeted education and prevention initiatives. While authorities prioritise support and intervention, there is also a firm stance on prosecution. “The AFP will prosecute if someone has been forced to marry against their will,” Schneider said, stressing that forced marriage is illegal in Australia and carries serious legal consequences.
The dangers of forced marriage were tragically highlighted in a landmark case in July 2024 when a Victorian woman became the first person in Australia to be convicted of arranging a forced marriage. She was sentenced to three years in prison after coercing her 20-year-old daughter into marrying a man against her will. Less than six months later, the young woman was murdered by her husband. Cases like this, Schneider warned, show that forced marriage is not just a violation of rights—it is a gateway to further harm, including domestic violence and sexual abuse.
While reports of forced marriage have been increasing, authorities believe many cases remain hidden. Victims often struggle with family and cultural pressures, fear of retribution, or isolation from support networks. The AFP urges anyone with concerns—whether for themselves or someone they know—to seek help. “You are not alone,” Schneider said. “If you do not feel comfortable speaking to police, there are other services and agencies that can provide support.”
Since 2013, forced marriage has been a crime in Australia, with laws strengthened in 2019 to protect children under 16. The legislation applies not only to marriages conducted in Australia but also to cases where a person is taken overseas to be married. Unlike legally arranged marriages, which require full and free consent from all parties, forced marriages are characterised by coercion, control, and a lack of choice.
Warning signs can vary, but common indicators include a family history of early marriage, strict control by family or community members, restricted communication, or distress over upcoming overseas travel. Some victims express fear about the consequences of refusing marriage, worried about physical violence or being ostracised.
Authorities continue to raise awareness and encourage the community to report concerns. Forced marriage is a crime that thrives in silence, and breaking that silence is the first step toward protecting vulnerable individuals from a lifetime of harm.
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