In a statement, police alleged that Watcharaporn Nantahkhum brought prostitutes to Australia and forced them to work in exploitative conditions in Canberra.

The 42-year-old was charged with possessing a slave, operating an illegal brothel and allowing non-citizens to work contrary to their visa restrictions.

She was also accused of engaging in debt bondage and attempting to pervert the course of justice.

The charges related to offences allegedly committed between June 2007 and June 2008.

A 55-year-old Victorian man also appeared before Magistrate Grant Lalor in connection to the matter.

Robert Phillip Dick, of West Preston, pleaded not guilty to helping operate an illegal brothel in Braddon.

He also pleaded not guilty to committing an act of indecency and two counts of engaging in sexual intercourse without consent.