Australia will officially recognise the State of Palestine during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, commencing on Tuesday, 9 September 2025.
The announcement marks a significant shift in Australian foreign policy and follows growing community pressure for action.
Days before the announcement, a large-scale protest took place on the Sydney Harbour Bridge, drawing hundreds of thousands of people to protest the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and demand urgent action from the Australian Government.
Despite the heavy rain and significant police presence, protesters marched, waved Palestinian flags and chanted calls for justice and recognition.
This was an event that attracted both national and international media attention.
Former Labor Cabinet Minister Ed Husic, in an interview on ABC National Radio, described the protest as a “wake-up call for Australian politics.”
“There was a lot of middle Australia there, I think that’s something that can’t be ignored,” he said.
Among the protestors was Yusuf Salih, a Sydney resident originally from London, who attended his first major protest in Australia.
“I don’t think anyone in their right mind would agree with the murdering of innocents,” Salih said.
The protest, combined with increasing international pressure and shifting diplomatic currents, appears to have been a key factor in accelerating Australia’s recognition of Palestine.
The Australian Government confirmed this recognition is aimed at advancing a two-state solution, supporting a ceasefire in Gaza and encouraging the release of hostages.
