Equality, Respect and Democratic Rights for All People
That State Conference resolves that it respects the dignity and equal rights of all people, in Australia and globally, to live in freedom and security, free from persecution and intimidation in a diverse, respectful, and multicultural society.
Racism, discrimination, and all forms of hatred including anti-semitism, at present the most serious manifestation of racism and hate in Australia and Victoria, Islamophobia and anti-Arab and Palestinian racism, have no place in our community. They undermine social cohesion and erode the foundations of a fair and inclusive society. Laws, institutions, and public discourse must actively promote diversity, protect vulnerable communities, and uphold respect and equal treatment for all. Conference commends the federal and Victorian governments on their specific efforts to combat antisemitism and Islamophobia.
State Conference declares that Victorian Labor should promote social harmony within a democratic society grounded in the rule of law, where difference is respected, and all individuals can exercise their rights and responsibilities freely and equitably through diverse and independent media, free speech, public assembly and the right to protest.
Moved: Maria Vamvakinou (Delegate from Australian Manufacturing Workers Union)
Seconded Kat Hardy (Delegate from Australian Services Union)
MOTION CARRIED
(Please note that proposed amendments marked in bold were rejected)
Reaffirming Balanced Middle East Foreign Policy
That State Conference resolves that urgent action is needed to support the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s assessment this week of the current situation in Gaza which includes that:
- There is practical support to increase the delivery of essential supplies and humanitarian aid to the civilian population.
- Recognition of a State of Palestine is an essential step towards a two-state solution, and there can be no role for Hamas or other designated terrorist organisations in the governance of a Palestinian State. A two-state solution can only be implemented when there is no involvement of Hamas and other designated terrorist organisations.
- All hostages must be released by Hamas so that Labor can continue to “build on Australia’s close and longstanding relationship with Israel”.
Moved: Nick Dyrenfurth (Delegate from Macnamara)
Seconded: Rosemary Barker (Delegate from Hotham)
MOTION DEFEATED
Justice for Palestine: Act Against Military Occupation, Siege and Genocide
That State Conference resolves that it recommends to the National Conference and the Federal Government to act with urgency to:
- Recognise a sovereign Palestinian State
immediatelyas an essential step towards a two-State solution - Abide by the International Court of Justice 2024 ruling that Israel’s occupation and settlement activity is unlawful, the binding obligation of states to conduct a comprehensive public review of all relations (including military, economic, political) with Israel to ensure that no Australian entities are providing aid or assistance to Israel in the commission of unlawful acts, and to action the review findings to ensure that any such aid or assistance ceases.
- Extend comprehensive sanctions against the executive members of the Netanyahu Government, who are collectively responsible for unlawful acts.
- Impose sanctions on the Australian export or trade, directly or indirectly, in all arms and military components or materiel to Israel as per our obligations under the Arms Trade Treaty.
- Legislate improved military trade transparency and tracking laws.
Moved: Oliver Van Ingen (Delegate from Finance Sector Union)
Seconded: Paul Healey (Delegate from Health and Community Services Union)
MOTION CARRIED
(Please note that proposed amendments in marked up in bold and strikethrough were rejected)
