Peace and Justice in the Middle East

The Middle East has long been a region marked by conflict, injustice, and immense human suffering. Far too many people have endured violence, displacement, and instability. What is unfolding in Gaza is a human catastrophe - tens of thousands of innocent civilians, including women and children, have been killed, and basic aid continues to be blocked. As a mother, I carry the pain of every parent in Palestine who has lost a child. The images of babies pulled from rubble will forever haunt me.

The Albanese Labor Government is deeply committed to peace, human rights, and justice for all peoples of the region- Israelis and Palestinians alike. We believe in diplomacy over violence, dialogue over division, and the right of all people to live in peace, with dignity and security. That’s why Australia has consistently been one of the international voices calling for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and a just peace.

What the Albanese Labor Government Has Done:

✔️ Called for a ceasefire and the release of all hostages
We have consistently joined international calls for an immediate and sustained ceasefire in Gaza and for all hostages to be released.

✔️ Recognised the State of Palestine
Australia formally recognised the State of Palestine at the 80th United Nations General Assembly in September, joining countries like the UK, France, and Canada in supporting a two-state solution and a just, lasting peace.

✔️ Upheld international law
We’ve voted at the UN to end unlawful Israeli settlements in Occupied Palestinian Territories — the first time in over 20 years that Australia has broken with the U.S. on this issue. We’ve also condemned Israel’s invasion of Rafah and demanded a timeline for Palestinian statehood.

✔️ Delivered over $130 million in humanitarian assistance
This includes $90 million for civilians in Gaza and Lebanon and additional aid to support communities displaced by the conflict.

✔️ Funded Palestinian settlement and support services
We’ve introduced humanitarian visa pathways for Palestinians from Gaza and funded organisations like PARA to assist in refugee resettlement and support.

✔️ Appointed Special Envoys to combat hate and promote community cohesion
Ms Jillian Segal AO was appointed as Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism and Mr Aftab Malik to Combat Islamophobia, helping strengthen multicultural understanding and safety at home.

✔️ Increased security and support for affected communities in Australia
We have delivered $50 million to improve security at religious schools, community centres, and places of worship, along with $90 million in community support, youth engagement, and mental health initiatives.

✔️ Sanctioned key Israeli officials
Australia joined Canada, New Zealand, Norway, and the UK in sanctioning Israel’s Minister for Defence and Minister for Finance, and has imposed sanctions on individuals committing settler violence in the West Bank.

✔️ Acted to ensure aid delivery and uphold accountability
We joined over 20 nations to condemn the Israeli Security Cabinet's model for humanitarian aid and called for safe, unhindered access for aid delivery.

✔️ Advocated for UNRWA and continued funding for aid agencies
Labor MPs have called publicly for the reinstatement of funding to UNRWA and challenged the misinformation targeting aid organisations.

The path to lasting peace in the Middle East is complex, but that does not mean we should shy away from working for it. Labor will always be a voice for justice, standing with those who are oppressed and marginalized, and advocating for a future where all people can live in peace and security.

As a long time supporter of Palestinian self-determination, you can find some public actions I’ve taken to advocate for Palestine below. I will continue to use my platform to advocate for the views of the Cooper constituency and for justice in Palestine.