Canberra, 11 August 2025 — Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced that Australia will formally recognise the State of Palestine, describing the move as “humanity’s best hope” for ending the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

The recognition will be based on commitments provided by the Palestinian Authority, including assurances on governance, security, and peaceful resolution of disputes.

“Australia will recognise the right of the Palestinian people to a state of their own, predicated on the commitments Australia has received from the Palestinian Authority,” Mr Albanese said at a press conference in Canberra.

The Prime Minister emphasised that the decision aligns with Australia’s long-standing support for a negotiated two-state solution, in which Israel and Palestine coexist peacefully within secure and recognised borders.

“A two-state solution is humanity’s best hope to break the cycle of violence in the Middle East and to bring an end to the conflict, suffering and starvation in Gaza,” he said.

The move comes amid renewed international pressure for peace talks, with several European nations also recognising Palestinian statehood in recent months. Critics warn the decision could strain diplomatic relations with Israel, while supporters argue it is a necessary step to restore hope in the peace process.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade will coordinate the formal recognition process in the coming months, working closely with international partners to support negotiations and humanitarian efforts in the region.