Australia will officially recognise a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly next month, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Monday, marking a major shift in the country’s foreign policy.
Speaking in Canberra, Albanese said a two-state solution was “humanity’s best hope to break the cycle of violence in the Middle East” and to end the “conflict, suffering and starvation” in Gaza. He confirmed the move followed commitments from the Palestinian Authority, including recognition of Israel’s right to exist, a demilitarised Palestine, governance reforms, and no role for Hamas in a future Palestinian state.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the decision reflected the urgent need for progress, as the peace process had “ground to a halt.” She added that the September UN summit would be a chance for the world to “forge hope from despair.”
The announcement comes amid global criticism of Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Palestinian health officials say more than 60,000 civilians have been killed since the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, which left 1,200 Israelis dead. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has condemned countries moving toward recognition of Palestine, calling the step “shameful,” and has outlined plans for full military occupation of Gaza, a move Australia has warned could breach international law.
In Australia, the decision has sparked mixed reactions. The Executive Council of Australian Jewry called it “premature” and a “betrayal,” warning it could reward Hamas. Opposition figures echoed these concerns, while Labor Friends of Palestine welcomed it as fulfilling long-standing party policy. Wong said further measures, such as an Australian embassy in Palestine or full embassy status for its delegation in Canberra, would depend on the Palestinian Authority meeting its commitments.
The move follows similar recognition pledges from France, Canada, and the United Kingdom, reflecting growing international momentum for Palestinian statehood. Supporters believe it could help restart peace talks, while critics say it risks straining diplomatic ties with Israel.
Australia is set to formalise recognition at the UN in September, with the government stressing it is part of a practical effort to advance peace, not just a symbolic gesture.
