Australia to Recognise Palestinian State at UNGA

On 11th August 2025, Australian Prime Minister announced that Australia will formally recognise the State of Palestine at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in September 2025, joining recent similar moves by France, Britain, and Canada.

Key Points

Purpose of Recognition: Australia aims to contribute to international momentum towards a two-state solution, secure a ceasefire in Gaza, and facilitate the release of hostages.
Conditions for Recognition: The decision is based on commitments from the Palestinian Authority, including that Hamas will have no role in any future Palestinian state.
Albanese’s Statement: The Prime Minister called a two-state solution “humanity’s best hope” to end the cycle of violence, conflict, and humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Criticism of Israel’s Actions: The Australian Government cited concerns over illegal settlement expansion, threats of annexation in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, and Israel’s opposition to Palestinian statehood.
Palestinian Authority Reforms: Governance reforms, demilitarisation, and plans for general elections by the Palestinian Authority, alongside Arab League demands for Hamas to step down in Gaza, were key factors in Australia’s decision.
International Context: New Zealand has indicated it will assess its position on recognising Palestine in the coming month.