Labor Accused of Silencing Gaza Dissent

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The Australian Labor Party (ALP) is experiencing internal debate regarding its policy on Gaza and the recognition of a Palestinian state. At the New South Wales (NSW) state conference in July 2024, NSW upper house Member of Parliament (MP) Anthony D’Adam raised concerns about the handling of discussion on the issue. He stated that his proposal for recognition of Palestinian statehood was not allowed to proceed to full debate.

State MPs in Victoria and Queensland have also expressed support for the immediate recognition of Palestine as a sovereign state. These calls are part of broader discussions within the ALP about the timing and conditions for such recognition.

The ALP’s national platform supports a two-state solution, which includes recognition of a Palestinian state alongside Israel’s right to exist. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has stated that recognition is a matter of timing. He has said that recognition should follow certain conditions, including a ceasefire in Gaza and the exclusion of Hamas from governance in any future Palestinian state.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong has stated that security and governance arrangements are central to the process. She has noted that any recognition would require assurances about the political and security situation in the region.

In August 2025, Australia joined 14 other countries in a public statement describing recognition of Palestine as an important step in the peace process. The statement was made in the context of ongoing international discussions on the conflict. France has announced plans to recognize Palestine in September 2025.

Some ALP members, including federal backbencher Ed Husic, have called for faster action on recognition. They have pointed to examples from other countries as evidence that recognition can proceed alongside diplomatic engagement.

The Coalition has stated that recognition should take place as part of a negotiated peace settlement between Israel and the Palestinians. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley and Liberal MP Julian Leeser have both emphasized the need for a peace process before recognition occurs.

The Zionist Federation of Australia has expressed concern about the humanitarian situation in Gaza. It has stated that recognition should be approached with caution and within the framework of broader peace negotiations.

In New South Wales and Victoria, ALP state conferences have passed motions supporting immediate recognition of Palestine and calling for certain measures regarding Israel. These motions are non-binding on the federal party but indicate the views of some members.

The matter is expected to remain under discussion as the United Nations General Assembly convenes in September 2025.