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2018 Labor National Conference: Health, jobs, Palestine and Labor’s mission

Labor will pursue the recognition of Palestine as a priority as part of its commitment to a two-state solution.

Rachel Baxendale and Richard Ferguson
41 min read
4:29PMDecember 18, 2018.
Updated 5:09PMDecember 18, 2018
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Bill Shorten speaks during the introduction of the Reconciliation Action Plan on day two of the Labor Party National Conference. Picture: AAP.
Bill Shorten speaks during the introduction of the Reconciliation Action Plan on day two of the Labor Party National Conference. Picture: AAP.

ALP’s national conference in Adelaide has wrapped with a message from leader Bill Shorten of Labor’s mission: “not just to win back government, but to rebuild faith in our democratic system”. “We do not intend to fail or disappoint the Australian people. We leave here today more united, more energised and more determined than ever, he said as the three-day conference wrapped.

Yesterday, Bill Shorten promised $500m for the UNHCR committed to turning back the boats.

Rachel Baxendale 4.40pm: Labor’s mission ‘about respect’

Bill Shorten tells delegates they have played an irreplaceable role in making the conference a forum of “passion, of unity of vision for a better Australia”.

He thanks a long list of people, including President Wayne Swan and National Secretary Noah Carroll, but pays special tribute to National ALP Operations Manager Sandy Rippingale.

“Over 25 years, six national secretaries, eight Labor leaders, ten national conferences, this woman has held the show together along with her small, loyal and dedicated band of supporters,” Mr Shorten said.

“She managed to organise this conference twice this year. Once in July and again in December.”

He then turns to Labor’s mission, which is “not just to win back government, but to rebuild faith in our democratic system”.

“It’s about respect. We respect the Australian people. We respect the intelligence of our fellow Australians. We have faith in their sense of fairness and we take people into our confidence.”

Finally, Mr Shorten concludes:

“We believe this nation needs a change. We believe Australia deserves a change.

“My team and I understand that millions of Australians are counting on us.

“We do not intend to fail or disappoint the Australian people. We leave here today more united, more energised and more determined than ever.

“We are ready to earn the trust of the Australian people at the next election.”

Mr Shorten, his deputy Tanya Plibersek and his wife Chloe and their children receive a standing ovation.

Mr Swan declares the conference closed.

Bruce Springsteen’s We Take Care Of Our Own from his 2012 album Wrecking Ball plays out over the PA system.

Rachel Baxendale 4.25pm: Carroll re-elected national secretary

Labor’s returning officer has announced the results of the election for the national executive.

Noah Carroll is re-elected unopposed as national secretary, while Deb O’Neill and Jenny McAllister are elected to National Policy Forum.

Among those elected to the national executive are Kaila Murnain, David Gray, Linda White, Graham Kelly, Amanda Rishworth, Kim Carr, Tara Moriarty, Lynne Champion, Adem Somyurek, Stephen Baker, Wendy Streets, Rose Jackson and Tim Ayers.

A final omnibus of foreign affairs amendments is moved and passed, before Penny Wong concludes the chapter and it is passed.

Conference is over, save for a final closing speech from Bill Shorten.

Rachel Baxendale 4.20pm: Labor condemns ‘politicisation of national security’

Labor regional communications spokesman Stephen Jones returns to the government’s bill on encrypted communications, moving a resolution condemning the “appallingly inadequate price for consideration of the Telecommunications and Other Legislation Amendment (Assistance and Access) Bill 2018 “rushed into the parliament by the Morrison government, and the politicisation of national security.

“This has undermined public confidence in Parliament’s ability to legislate in this important area,” the resolution states.

Labor:

— Affirms that it is possible to protect the safety of Australia and its people, including by equipping our law enforcement and security agencies with appropriate powers, while fostering a vibrant IT sector and protecting citizens’ data and privacy.

— Recognises that necessary powers for law enforcement should not unduly: impinge on the rights, freedoms and values that define us as a democratic nation; or undermine Australia’s economic security or cybersecurity which are a critical part of an holistic understanding of the concept of national security.

It notes that Labor succeeded in securing 173 amendments to the government’s original bill, which constrain the scope of the powers, introduce new oversight arrangements and provide for further scrutiny of the legislation including public input via an inquiry to examine the need for further changes.

The resolution calls on the federal parliamentary Labor Party to further engage and work with industry and civil society and economic regulators to resolve outstanding concerns raised including the security and safety of the internet; Australian industry including technology, defence and businesses relying on encryption; and

civil liberties and transparent public reporting.

The resolution passes.

Rachel Baxendale 4.15pm: Climate change ‘emergency’

Retiring Victorian federal MP Michael Danby moves a motion welcoming the introduction of the International Human Rights and Corruption (Magnitsky Sanctions) Bill which would “strengthen provisions enabling sanctions to be imposed, where appropriate, for the purposes of compliance with United Nations obligations, or other international obligations, or for the purposes of preventing or responding to gross human rights abuse or violations, or acts of significant corruption.”

The bill follows the precedent set by the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act 2016 (US) and the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Bill 2018 (UK), aimed at curbing the influence of foreign persons and entities who have engaged in activities deemed illegal by international human rights law.

It seeks to:

— Prevent proscribed foreign persons who have engaged in gross violations of human rights and corruption from visiting Australia and spending and investing their money here by targeting these individuals with immigration, financial and trade sanctions;

— Expose those who are sanctioned as pariahs to the people of their country and the international community; and

— Create exposure that will deter individuals in authoritarian regimes from engaging in future gross human rights violations and corruption.

The bill is named after the Russian lawyer Sergei Magnitsky who died in jail after uncovering major tax fraud by officials.

“Globally, similar acts are being used by democratic governments against officials connected with authoritarian governments who engage in serious human rights abuses and corruption in their own countries,” the resolution asserts.

Victorian senator Kimberley Kitching seconds the motion but waives her right to speak.

The motion passes.

Rachel Baxendale 4.10pm: Climate change ‘emergency’

Penny Wong has a dig at the Greens for voting against the previous Labor government’s climate change policies as she speaks in favour of a resolution on climate change.

“They voted with Cory Bernardi and the Coalition. And we will never let them forget it,” Senator Wong says.

The resolution, which is also supported by NSW MP Pat Conroy, notes the latest IPCC report on climate change and argues it demonstrates that “far bolder action is required to reduce carbon pollution if we are to avoid devastating impacts on humanity”.

“Labor recognises the severity of this climate emergency not just because of Australia’s significant exposure to climate hazards (extreme heat, drought, bushfires, floods) but because our region includes many less developed countries for which climate change is an existential threat,” the resolution states.

It commits a Labor government to:

— Take urgent action to address climate change;

— Ensure Australia’s climate targets are based on the scientific advice of what is required to deliver the Paris goal of passing on a sustainable climate to future generations; a cut of 45 per cent by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050;

— Ensure our global commitments are matched by our domestic action;

— Restore Australia’s credibility and reputation as a creative, collaborative and energetic member of the community of nations committed to reducing carbon pollution by demonstrating leadership in multilateral forums and reinstituting and rebadging the position of Climate Change Ambassador;

— Advocate globally for more ambitious climate action; and

— Ensure our development assistance reflects climate change as a key development risk.

The resolution passes.

Rachel Baxendale 4.05pm: Encyrption amendment

NSW senator Jenny McAllister moves an amendment regarding privacy and national security.

The amendment comes after recent parliamentary debate over laws compelling tech companies to give law enforcement and national security agencies access to encrypted messages sent by terror and other crime suspects.

The amendment commits Labor to strengthening the oversight arrangements provided by the Independent National Security Legislation Monitor, the Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security, the Commonwealth Ombudsman and the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security (PJCIS).

“These oversight bodies must work collaboratively so that the parliament, and through it the public, can have confidence that:

— security agencies are operating effectively, efficiently, and within the scope of their powers; and

— security laws are appropriate and represent the least intrusive and most effective response to the threats faced by Australia,” the amendment states.

“Labor will remove those restrictions that prevent the PJCIS from properly scrutinising security agencies and security laws, and from working in full collaboration with the oversight bodies in their important ongoing work.

“These restrictions are no longer compatible with the role that the PJCIS and the Parliament must play in keeping both Australians and their civil liberties safe, and maintaining public trust in an environment where agencies have been provided with greater powers.

“Parliament, through the PJCIS, must be kept appropriately informed about Australia’s security activities in order to ensure our laws meet the expectations of the Australian public.”

Rachel Baxendale 4pm: Parliament to decide war engagement

Former ALP secretary Tim Gartrell moves a motion committing a Shorten government to taking any decision to engage in war to parliament.

The resolution reads as follows:

“A Shorten Labor Government will refer the issue of how Australia makes decisions to send service personnel into international armed conflict to an inquiry to be conducted by the Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade. This inquiry would take submissions, hold public hearings and produce its findings during the term of the 46th Parliament.”

The resolution passes.

Rachel Baxendale 3.55pm: Cambodia sanctions, aid review

Victorian MP Julian Hill moves a resolution on human rights abuses in Cambodia, expressing “serious concerns” about the deterioration of democracy and human rights in Cambodia and asserts that the 2018 General Election process has reversed more than 25 years of work towards democracy in Cambodia, including because:

a) the main Opposition Party (CNRP) was dissolved and banned from participating in the election;

b) Opposition leader Kem Sokha was jailed on politically motivated charges; and

c) it took place in an environment where not all political parties, civil society organisations and media could operate freely.

Labor expresses disappointment that the Cambodian people have been unable to freely choose their representatives, and agrees with the European Parliament and other members of the international community that the election cannot be considered free and fair.

The resolution notes that on 13 September 2018, the European Parliament declared that the “political structure of Cambodia can no longer be considered a democracy”, and the European Commission has begun a review into its duty free access for Cambodia; and that the United States Government has implemented targeted sanctions against the Cambodian regime.

The resolution urges a Shorten Labor government to continue to urge the Cambodian Government to take steps to allow free and open political debate without violence and intimidation, and to consider additional measures such as reviewing Australian aid to Cambodia, examining sanctions, investigating allegations of illicit activities including money laundering by members of the Cambodian People’s Party in Australia, guaranteeing the rights of Australians of Cambodian heritage to live safely and free from intimidation, and determining whether the Foreign Influence Transparency Scheme may apply to any community groups which may be operating covertly in Australia in support of Hun Sen’s regime; and leading and supporting multilateral efforts with other nations, starting with signatories of the 1991 Paris Peace Accords, to develop co-ordinated measures to support democracy in Cambodia.

The resolution passes.

Rachel Baxendale 3.50pm: Labor backs PNG team push for NRL

The next amendment involves a commitment from Labor to work with the Australian Rugby League Commission, the PNG government and PNG Rugby League to investigate the establishment of a PNG team in Australia’s NRL competition.

“This should be undertaken as a foreign policy initiative as well as a sports initiative aimed at building cultural and economic links between the two nations,” the amendment reads.

Labor commits to:

“Support the PNGRL on initiatives to continue to strengthen their financial sustainability, governance, player and referee development so that the PNG Hunters team, which currently competes in the Queensland Rugby League’s Intrust Super Cup, can continue to succeed in the Cup, and are well positioned to apply for an NRL Licence in the future,” and

“Continue to support the NRL’s League for Life program, established with the support of the Gillard Government, to address social challenges such as domestic and family violence, health promotion and educational attainment in PNG, Samoa, Tonga and Fiji.”

The amendment passes.

Rachel Baxendale 3.45pm: Pacific priority in foreign policy

Queensland senator Claire Moore and defence spokesman Richard Marles speak in favour of a resolution regarding Australia’s relationship with Pacific nations.

The resolution is very long, but in essence it calls for Australia to be a responsible and constructive partner and the natural partner of choice for Pacific nations.

Climate change is front and centre, with Labor committing to recognise that climate change is the “single greatest threat to the livelihoods, security and wellbeing of the peoples of the Pacific” and that “our credibility as a constructive international actor, and as a valuable Pacific partner, depends on our commitment to climate change”.

The resolution also notes that the Pacific has felt the impact of the record $11 billion in aid cuts under the Coalition government.

It notes that labour mobility schemes are highly valued by our Pacific neighbours and contribute substantially to economic development, and recognises that Australia’s economy also benefits from the availability of Pacific workers and that our society benefits from the connections with Pacific communities.

A Shorten Labor government commits to:

— Ensure the Pacific is front and centre of our foreign policy;

— Engage with the Pacific with respect, to promote the wellbeing of the entire region, for the benefit of both Australia and the ten million people of the Pacific Islands themselves;

— Establish a government-supported infrastructure financing facility and grow our aid commitment to the Pacific;

— Reconstitute the role of Minister for Pacific Affairs and International Development;

— Work closely with our friends and other partners to help the region meet its challenges, and support and create opportunities and possibilities for realising the Pacific’s own vision for the Blue Pacific continent;

— Build on the Defence co-operation Programs to expand our engagement with the defence forces of the Pacific;

— Explore opportunities with Pacific countries for more cost effective Australian government service delivery that is of benefit to the Pacific;

— Co-ordinate and co-operate more to better leverage our engagement towards development outcomes and help reduce transaction costs for Pacific bureaucracies; and

— As a Pacific nation, work in partnership with Pacific island states to contribute to the security and prosperity of the entire region.

The resolution passes.

Rachel Baxendale 3.40pm: Support to abolish nuclear weapons

Anthony Albanese and Richard Marles both give passionate speeches in favour of a nuclear disarmament resolution.

The resolution reads that Labor:

— Congratulates the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons on its work in returning to global prominence the cause of nuclear disarmament;

— Acknowledges the value of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (the Ban Treaty) and its aspiration to rid the world of nuclear weapons for all time; and

— Acknowledges the centrality of the US Alliance to Australia’s national security and strategic policy.

Labor in government will sign and ratify the Ban Treaty, after taking account of the need to:

— Ensure an effective verification and enforcement architecture;

— Ensure the interaction of the Ban Treaty with the longstanding Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty; and

— Work to achieve universal support for the Ban Treaty.

Labor will take urgent action to reduce the risk of nuclear war by continuing its proud record of seeking nuclear disarmament by:

— Working to create the conditions necessary to achieve a pathway to universal support for the Ban Treaty;

— Advocating to the United States and Russia for the renewal of the New START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty) Treaty for the period beyond 2021;

— Advocating to the United States that it actively negotiates with Russia, China and other nuclear armed states a follow on treaty to the New START treaty with a view to realising the objective of Article VI of the Treaty on the Non -Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT): a world free of nuclear weapons; and

— Seeking to work with partners and allies to build upon the International Commission on Nuclear Non-Proliferation and Disarmament and develop an initiative which proposes a way of working with states possessing nuclear weapons to realise the aspiration of Article VI of the NPT seeking to encourage transparency among all states with nuclear weapons over their doctrine and the composition of their arsenals, and continuing to strengthen non-proliferation goals in the Indo-Pacific region.

The resolution passes on voices.

Rachel Baxendale 3.30pm: Labor to pursue recognition of Palestine

Now it’s time for the resolution on Israel and Palestine.

The resolution notes that conference:

1. Notes previous resolutions on Israel/Palestine carried at the 2015 ALP National Conference and the 2016 NSW Labor Annual Conference;

2. Supports the recognition and right of Israel and Palestine to exist as two states within secure and recognised borders;

3. Calls on the next Labor Government to recognise Palestine as a state; and

4. Expects that this issue will be an important priority for the next Labor Government.

Penny Wong moves the motion.

“I want to acknowledge that the conflict between Israel and Palestine is an issue of great importance to many in our party,” Senator Wong says.

“It is of great importance because Labor is a friend of Israel. I am a friend of Israel.

“It is of great importance because Labor is a friend of the Palestinians. I am a friend of the Palestinians.

“It is of great importance because we, in Labor, not only deal with the world as it is, we seek to change it for the better.

“And so all who have come to this debate do so in the hope of contributing to peace and to a just and lasting resolution of the conflict between these two peoples.”

Senator Wong says the resolution makes clear Labor intends to continue to support the recognition and right of Israel and Palestine to exist as two states within secure and recognised borders.

“And it recognises the desire of this conference to recognise Palestine as a state,” Senator Wong says.

“We recognise that a just two-state resolution will require recognising the right of both the Israeli and Palestinian peoples to live in peace and security.

“Labor will continue to call on both sides of the conflict to refrain from any actions that hamper peaceful outcomes for both the Israeli and Palestinian people.

“And we will continue to ensure that any decision we take contributes to peaceful resolution of the conflict and to progress towards a two-state solution.”

Senator Wong says Labor’s approach was largely bipartisan until recently, and hits out at the government’s decision to move Australia’s Israeli embassy to Jerusalem.

“In a shameful act five days before the Wentworth by-election, Scott Morrison put his own domestic political interest before the national interest,” Senator Wong says.

“He made a decision to junk longstanding bipartisan foreign policy in a cynical attempt to win votes.

“It was a decision made against the longstanding advice of agencies, without Cabinet consideration, and without properly consulting Australia’s partners and allies.

“Astonishingly, it was a decision made without consulting either the Israelis or the Palestinians themselves, whose agreement must be the foundation of any lasting peace.

“The result of the chaos and confusion has been clear.

“Mr Morrison has caused offence to some of our nearest neighbours, harmed Australia’s international reputation, and our nation’s interests.”

Senator Wong commends the resolution to the conference, saying it makes clear Labor’s commitment to progressing lasting peace and a two-state solution.

Tony Burke seconds Senator Wong’s motion.

“We have reached a point where the arguments to wait have become thinner, and the arguments to act have become stronger,” Mr Burke says.

The motion passes on voices, with cheering and clapping from the floor.

Rachel Baxendale 3.15pm: Annual foreign aid increase

Penny Wong then speaks on an amendment, committing Labor to increasing aid as a percentage of Gross National Income every year that they are in office starting with their first budget.

The amendment passes.

Rachel Baxendale 3.10pm: Stance on Asia

Penny Wong moves a resolution, seconded by Chris Bowen, on Australia’s place in Asia.

It reads as follows.

Conference:

— Believes that Australia’s future prosperity depends on improved capability at home and greater engagement and collaboration abroad and that central to achieving this is closer ties with our region;

— Recognises that this reflects a longstanding Labor view — from Prime Minister Whitlam through Hawke, Keating, Rudd and Gillard: spanning recognition of China, to the establishment of APEC, to a White Paper which recognised the need to shape domestic policy to meet the opportunity and challenges of the Asian century;

— Welcomes the FutureAsia strategy, a fundamental whole-of-government, nationwide strategy to deepen and broaden our engagement with Asia;

— Supports FutureAsia as a central focus of Labor’s foreign and domestic policy to achieve a step change in our relations with Asia; and

— Commends Labor’s FutureAsia, a comprehensive and confident plan for advancing Australia’s national interests and contributing to the prosperity, stability and security of the region.

The resolution is passed.

Rachel Baxendale 3pm: Labor defence spending

ALP conference has resumed after lunch, with foreign policy chapter: “Australia’s place in a disrupted world”.

Penny Wong introduces the chapter, speaking of global change and disruption.

She speaks of the importance of Australia’s relationship with Asia and announces a Shorten government will establish four additional diplomatic missions in the Asia-Pacific region.

Senator Wong commits to rebuilding Australia’s international development assistance program.

The introduction is seconded by Richard Marles who describes the current global political scenario as more difficult than at any other time since the Second World War.

He speaks of the importance of Australia’s relationships with both China and the US and of the changing power dynamics between those two countries.

“A Shorten Labor government will develop a strategic basis for an Australian defence industry,” Mr Marles says, committing a Shorten government to spending two per cent of GDP on defence.

Rachel Baxendale 2.20pm: Palestine stance a win for Left

This afternoon’s amendment on Palestine, moved by Penny Wong and seconded by Tony Burke represents a significant win for the Left of the Labor Party.

It is almost identical to a motion passed by the NSW branch of the ALP last year, which was strongly opposed by Bill Shorten’s Victorian Right faction.

The amendment reads that ALP conference:

1. Notes previous resolutions on Israel/Palestine carried at the 2015 ALP National Conference and the 2017 NSW Labor Annual Conference;

2. Supports the recognition and right of Israel and Palestine to exist as two states within secure and recognised borders;

3. Calls on the next Labor government to recognise Palestine as a state; and

4. Expects that this issue will be an important priority for the next Labor government.

A spokeswoman for Mr Shorten noted that the amendment is not binding.

Rachel Baxendale 2.05pm: National executive vote

Labor conference is now having a break for lunch.

Over lunch, delegates are voting for the next ALP national executive, with the ballot due to close at 2pm.

The final policy chapter for the day, “Australia’s place in a disrupted world”, will be introduced by foreign affairs spokeswoman Penny Wong and seconded by defence spokesman Richard Marles.

Some of the more interesting amendments include increasing Australia’s aid spending every year, a controversial commitment to recognise Palestine, and the signing and ratification of the new global nuclear ban treaty with some conditions.

While the foreign policy amendments are being counted, the ballot for national executive will be counted, with the results announced at the very end of the conference.

The conference is expected to conclude mid afternoon with a closing speech from Bill Shorten.

Rachel Baxendale 1.50pm: Shorten’s wages pledge

Now Bill Shorten rises to endorse the industrial relations chapter.

“If we are elected as the next Labor government, in our first 100 days we will restore the Sunday and public holiday penalty rates for 700,000 working Australians,” he says.

He declares that Labor IR policy under him will not simply be a re-run of the Hawke-Keating accord, given the world now is vastly different from how it was in 1983.

“Co-operation, consensus, working together … that is the spirit in which we will approach our wages policy,” Mr Shorten says.

“We will start that process of getting the wages of Australia moving again from the very first week after the election.

“A political party without a wages policy is horribly out of touch.

“Wages policy is the proposition that if you work hard you should not live in poverty.”

Shorten promises to fight the casualisation of the workforce, so that there will be: “No more use of the meaningless term, that contradictory term: ‘permanent casual’.”

“Working people have the right to be represented by a union in this country, and this means that people should be able to access their union.”

Shorten pledges to abolish the Australian Building and Construction Commission and Registered Organisations Commission.

“This is Australia, not a tin-pot dictatorship, and that is why we will abolish the ABCC and the Registered Organisations Commission,” he says.

He says there will be “No more pay discounts because you are a woman.”

“The work traditionally done by women in predominantly feminised industries … that this important work is equally valuable and equally as important as the work traditionally done by men in male-dominated industries.”

Shorten also promises ten days of paid domestic violence leave as a workplace right.

He says the Australian people at the next election will need to decide who is the best party to champion issues such as equal pay and lifting the wages of working people.

“It is only our party and our movement who seek to govern for all,” Mr Shorten says.

Rachel Baxendale 1.30pm: Penalty rate cuts reversal

The final resolution in the industrial relations chapter relates to penalty rates.

“The Labor Party Conference 2018 applauds Labor’s commitment in government to standing up for workers by legislating to reverse all penalty rate cuts and preventing any future cuts,” the resolution reads.

“The conference:

— Condemns the attempts by Clubs Australia to cut the penalty rates of clubs workers. These attacks are out of step with the ethic of the clubs sector and out of touch with the support that many local clubs have expressed for their workforce.

— Commends the over 150 clubs that have rejected Clubs Australia’s attack and told the Fair Work Commission that they oppose penalty rate cuts for their workers.

— Further condemns the cuts to penalty rates for retail and hospitality workers approved by the Fair Work Commission in 2017, and notes the devastating impact on the incomes and living standards of 700,000 workers.

— Acknowledges a dangerous trend of attacks on penalty rates across the economy and the danger facing all workers who rely on penalty rates.

— Commends the valiant campaigns by the trade union movement, on the ground and in the courts, to defend workers’ penalty rates.

— Believes that Australians need a pay rise, not continued attacks on their penalty rates and living standards.”

Bill Shorten delivers a speech during day three of the conference. Lukas Coch/AAP
Bill Shorten delivers a speech during day three of the conference. Lukas Coch/AAP

Ewin Hannan 1.25pm: Wage claims allowed against multi employers

Federal Labor in office would allow unions and workers to pursue wage claims against multiple employers where bargaining at an enterprise level has failed.

Labor’s workplace relations spokesman Brendan O’Connor said a Shorten government would support laws to ensure ‘every worker has an appropriate vehicle to bargain with their employer to get their fair share of economic growth’.

‘Where enterprise bargaining has failed or is failing multi-employer bargaining should be another available option,’ he told the ALP national conference.

The commitment opens the way for unions under a Labor government to be able to pursue multi-employer bargaining beyond low-paid industries.

Labor and unions will continue to negotiate in the lead up the election over the detail of the multi-employer bargaining policy.

Sources said Labor will consult with employers about the policy and there was acknowledgment from unions that Labor had to assess what a new government could get through the Senate.

‘Australian workers are being left behind and going backwards because of wage stagnation and growing job insecurity,’ Mr O’Connor told conference delegates.

‘And one of the key causes is that enterprise bargaining is faltering in some parts of the labour market and in other parts failing altogether.

‘Workers need and deserve a seat at the bargaining table, but too many are not afforded that right. Too many workers, often low paid with insufficient industrial strength, are missing out.’

ACTU secretary Sally McManus told delegates that the trade union movement was sounding an alarm — it is time to listen and it is time to act’.

She praised Bill Shorten, highlighting his record as a union leader and said Labor had a plan for more secure work.

in a statement, she said: ‘“We will continue to consult with the ALP and all political parties to develop a system that puts working people on an equal footing with employers to win the fair pay and secure jobs working people need.”

Kevin Rudd and Bill Shorten. Picture: AAP.
Kevin Rudd and Bill Shorten. Picture: AAP.

David Swan 1.20pm: Lid lifted on algorithms

A Shorten Labor government would investigate the tech giants’ secretive algorithms, after a key motion passed at the party’s national conference.

Read the story in full here.

Rachel Baxendale 1.14pm: Regulation for hair stylists

Conference also makes a number of commitments regarding the hair styling industry, promising to introduce a consistent national minimum requirement for hair stylist qualifications, create proper regulation, licensing and oversight of businesses providing hair styling services and support the Fair Work Ombudsman to investigate hair and beauty industry compliance with workplace relations laws, including by engaging with relevant unions to identify areas and employers of concern.

Rachel Baxendale 1.11pm: ‘Stand up for workers’

The MUA’s Christy Cain rises to speak on an industrial manslaughter resolution.

He begins his speech by calling for a minute’s silence in honour of those who have died at work.

“Last year in Australia 190 workers were killed at work and there have already been more than 115 workers killed so far this year. No worker should go to work and die,” the resolution begins.

“Every industrial death is a tragedy. The death of a worker creates a ripple effect for the victim’s family, the victim’s workplace and the greater community.

“Conference acknowledges that Labor is the party that stands up for workers and their safety.

“Conference congratulates Labor Senators for initiating and leading the recent Senate Education and Employment Committee into industrial deaths in Australia.”

The resolution commits federal Labor to working with Safe Work Australia and state and territory governments to introduce a nationally consistent industrial manslaughter offence into the model WHS laws, using the Queensland laws as a starting point, and pursue adoption of this amendment in other jurisdictions through the formal harmonisation of WHS laws process.

In Queensland if a person conducting a business or undertaking, or a senior officer commits industrial manslaughter, a maximum penalty of 20 years imprisonment for an individual or $10 million for a body corporate applies.

Conference notes that the ACT, Queensland and Victorian Labor governments have introduced or committed to industrial manslaughter laws.

“This conference affirms our support for industrial manslaughter laws though amendments of WHS laws and/or the state and territory criminal codes and sets an objective to have industrial manslaughter laws enacted in all States and Territories in Australia within the first year of a Shorten Labor government,” the resolution concludes.

Cain ends his speech by getting delegates to chant with him: “Kill a worker, go to jail.”

The resolution is passed.

Rachel Baxendale 12.59pm: ‘Erosion of workers’ rights’

CPSU National Secretary Nadine Flood moves a resolution on the “erosion of public sector workers’ rights and conditions”.

“National Conference condemns the Abbott/ Turnbull / Morrison Government for its ideological attack on their own workforce which has spanned over 5 years,” the resolution reads.

“The Coalition Government, through its bargaining framework, sought to cut the important rights and conditions that members rely on, attacks on rights to representation and delegates, while offering below inflation pay rises and prohibiting back pay or any other compensation for delays in bargaining.

“National Conference notes that after 5 years over 13,000 workers in the Department of Home Affairs are about to face a workplace determination outcome which could cut penalties, allowances and conditions if the Coalition government’s case is accepted.

“National Conference notes that the Abbott/Turnbull / Morrison government’s failure to recognise the importance of the work public sector workers perform on behalf of the community in agencies such as Human Services, Centrelink, Medicare, Tax, CSIRO and the Bureau of Meteorology.

“This disregard is combined with attacks on secure work and wholesale contracting, privatisation and outsourcing of the public sector.

“National Conference recognises that public sector workers play a critical role in serving the community and, like other workers should be treated fairly and with respect by their employer and should be able to maintain their employment rights and conditions.

“National Conference recognises Federal Labor’s commitment to being a good employer, supporting fair and respectful industrial arrangements for public sector workers and supporting great public services.”

The resolution is carried.

Rachel Baxendale 12.56pm: Abolish work-for-the-dole

Indigenous United Voice official Wayne Kurnoth and NT senator Malarndirri McCarthy move the following resolution, cementing Labor’s commitment to abolish the government’s remote area work-for-the-dole scheme, the Community Development program.

“The Community Development program (CDP), commencing in 2015, requires people to work at least 25 hours to qualify for unemployment benefits. 80 per cent of CDP participants are indigenous,” the resolution reads.

“CDP participants are paid well below the minimum wage, are not paid superannuation, are not covered by the Fair Work Act, OHS protections or workers compensation. They are not entitled to annual leave, sick leave or carers leave.

“Recent reports have labelled the CDP “racist, incredibly punitive, ineffective, and expensive.”

“Conference believes that all Australians should have the opportunity to have a job they can count on. CDP deprives people of that opportunity.

“Conference congratulates Labor on their commitment to abolish the current CDP and replace it with a genuine program that delivers jobs and economic growth.”

The motion is carried.

Rachel Baxendale 12.50pm: Industrial diseases amendment

WA CFMEU state secretary Mick Buchan and MUA national officer Mich-Elle Myers move the following amendment on industrial diseases:

“Previous years have seen the emergence and re-emergence of causes and incidences of deadly industrial diseases among the industrial workforce including black lung, asbestosis, silicosis and other cancers,” the amendment reads.

“Labor will develop a national strategy on industrial disease focusing on reform to the regulatory environment for prevention, monitoring and response to industrial diseases.”

The amendment is carried.

Rachel Baxendale 12.43pm: ‘FIFO has a place’

AMWU WA state secretary gets up to speak on an amendment relating to FIFO work.

“Labor recognises that ‘fly in fly out’ (FIFO) and other long distance commuting arrangements have a place in the employment landscape for genuinely remote and temporary operations,” the amendment reads.

“However, Labor acknowledges that FIFO work cycles can lead to stress in family relationships, isolation, loneliness, depression and suicide.

“For the benefit of all workers, their families and local communities, Labor will support industry best practice in work patterns, accommodation standards, communication technology and mental health support for workers.

“Labor recognises that communications are vital for a worker’s ability to manage the isolating features of FIFO work and that practices such as modelling, hot bedding and double-bunking should be eliminated.”

Further paragraphs call for a federal Labor government to work with state and territory governments to enhance return to work provisions for FIFO workers experiencing mental health issues.

Fellow WA delegate David Scaife also speaks in favour.

The amendment is carried.

Rachel Baxendale 12.40pm: Change disability stereotypes

Next up is an amendment on encouraging people with a disability to participate in the workplace.

“Labor will also work with people with disability to change stereotypes and demonstrate the real and tangible value of diversity in the workplace,” the amendment reads.

Victorian delegate Tony Clark, who is blind, speaks passionately about the need to give people with a disability the opportunity to work.

The amendment is carried.

Rachel Baxendale 12.33pm: ‘Fix gender pay gap’

Now we’re onto amendments.

The first one is a big one, aimed at addressing the gender pay gap through increasing pay in feminised industries such as early childhood education and aged care.

Tanya Plibersek says the only explanation for the low rate of pay early childhood educators receive is gender discrimination.

“It’s time we fixed the gender pay gap,” she says.

The amendment commits Labor to ensuring that the equal remuneration provisions in the Fair Work Act deliver for low paid women.

“Labor will make gender pay equity an object of the Fair Work Act,” the amendment states.

“Labor will establish a statutory Equal Remuneration Principle, to guide the Fair Work Commission’s consideration of whether feminised industries are paid fairly.

“Labor will establish a new Pay Equity Panel within the Commission led by a new Presidential Member with specific expertise in gender pay equity, and fund the Commission to establish a Pay Equity Unit that will provide expert research support during equal remuneration matters, and more generally.

“Labor will shine a light on pay inequity, including by updating parliament each year on Australia’s progress in closing the gender pay gap.”

Brendan O’Connor then speaks on the amendment.

“You can’t tackle inequality without addressing the gender pay gap,” he says.

NSW senator Jenny McAllister and Victorian delegate Clare Burns also speak.

The motion is carried on the voices.

Richard Ferguson 12.30pm: Rudd appearance ‘healing’

Kevin Rudd is congratulated by Bill Shorten after receiving Labor Life Membership. Picture: AAP.
Kevin Rudd is congratulated by Bill Shorten after receiving Labor Life Membership. Picture: AAP.

Labor frontbencher Amanda Rishworth says Kevin Rudd’s appearance at the ALP National Conference was a “really special” and a “healing” moment for the party.

“It was a really special moment in the room. Kevin really spoke about why he loves the Labor Party so much,” Ms Rishworth said.

“It was, as both Bill and Kevin described it, as quite a healing moment.

“It is about demonstrating that we have come a long way. We’ve learnt the lessons from the past. I think the past five years have demonstrated it.”

Primrose Riordan 12.27pm: ALP dodges divisions

The Labor leadership team believe they have avoided a messy floor divisions over such issues as recognising Palestine and signing up to a nuclear ban treaty after agreement was reached today between frontbenchers and opposing factions.

The leadership have been keen to avoid motions where votes are counted individually as it gives the impression of division.

Senior sources said the motion on recognising Palestine will place “greater expectations” on the party of actually following through with a formal recognition if elected, but it would still leave the decision up to the leadership and would be subject to a future government taking expert advice.

The motion is modelled on a motion passed at the 2017 NSW Labor conference supported by Palestine supporter former foreign minister Bob Carr.

Senator Wong and Labor Environment Spokesman Tony Burke are expected to speak to the motion.

The Australian reported this morning that Labor factions were inching closer to a preliminary agreement to pass a motion which said Labor in government will sign and ratify the new global nuclear ban treaty, but would take into account various conditions including nuclear powers signing-up and for there to be “effective verification” of signatories.

The leadership believe they have now reached an agreement on this, despite frontbencher Anthony Albanese giving notice of a motion yesterday that Senator Wong disagreed with.

The United States Studies Centre’s Ashley Townshend has argued that Australia shouldn’t sign the Nuclear Ban Treaty as it leaves democracies exposed and is incompatible with the US alliance.

But the vast majority of Labor MPs had signed up to an online pledge to push Labor to sign and ratify the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.

The leadership believe they have clinched a deal to pass a motion which calls on Labor to sign up to and ratify the treaty but only under certain conditions — leaving the issue again up to a future Labor cabinet.

Mr Albanese and Labor Defence Spokesman Richard Marles are expected to speak to the motion.

There has also been agreement over foreign aid, where Labor is committed to spend more each year as a proportion of gross national income.

Now, while the leadership believe they have this deal, the motions will go up in front of the conference after 2.15pm today.

This means that delegates could still attempt to unwind the deal and attempt to force a vote.

Rachel Baxendale 12.25pm: ‘Change the rules’

Now it’s employment services, workforce participation and future of work spokeswoman Terri Butler’s turn to speak.

Ms Butler calls on her Labor colleagues to work to get Mr Shorten elected and “change the rules” on insecure work.

Rachel Baxendale 12.20pm: Unions ‘sounding alarm’

Brendan O’Connor introduces the Industrial Relations chapter, speaking about inequality and low wage growth.

He speaks of a commitment to allow multi-employer bargaining.

“Workers deserve a seat at the bargaining table,” Mr O’Connor says.

Bill Shorten reserves his right to speak, and ACTU boss Sally McManus takes his place.

“The trade union movement in our country is sounding an alarm,” Ms McManus says.

“Working people are crying out for action on insecure work and crying out for fair pay rises.”

She says CEO pay went up 12 per cent this year.

“How obscene is it that anyone could be paid what our top CEOs receive?” Ms McManus says.

McManus hits out at Coalition MPs, asking whether they ever ask their Uber driver how much they’re earning, or think about the fact that cafe workers have lost penalty rates.

“The trade union movement is ready to reach out a hand of friendship to any employer who also wants to give people a fair go.”

McManus pays tribute to Bill Shorten’s previous role as AWU secretary “living and breathing” working life in Australia and speaks of their first meeting, in Wodonga in Victoria’s northeast, 24 years ago.

“You stood out as a leader then, as someone special, someone who has the goods,” Mc Manus says of Shorten.

McManus says the trade union movement is seeing the “fair go crushed by inequality”.

She says Shorten understands the problems and will fight for change to “bring back the fair go for working people”.

Rachel Baxendale 11.55am: Health chapter passed

Amendments on rheumatic heart disease and mental health are carried, as is the entire health chapter.

Conference now turns to Industrial Relations.

Rachel Baxendale 11.50am: ‘Make abortion easier, safer’

One of today’s more high profile amendments is a non-binding resolution on abortion.

The resolution reads as follows:

“National Conference resolves that legal, safe, affordable and accessible abortion is fundamental to social and economic equality for women and people with reproductive ability — and must be treated as a health issue.

“National Conference acknowledges Queensland Labor’s significant reforms to decriminalise abortion and implement safe access zones for patients and workers.

“These reforms are a consequence of Labor implementing progressive sexual and reproductive health policy.

“National Conference notes efforts in New South Wales and South Australia to decriminalise abortion, following their previous reforms to enhance access.

“National Conference notes that there is still a lack of legal certainty, accessibility and funding across all States and Territories which means that many women and people with reproductive ability are denied access to vital reproductive and sexual health services.

“National Conference calls on Federal, State and Territory Labor governments to reduce barriers to reproductive and sexual healthcare across Australia.

“National Conference supports efforts to decriminalise abortion, eliminate the prohibitive cost of surgical abortion through provision in public hospitals, provision of safe access zones, and fully funded, universal access to surgical and medical abortion, particularly for patients in rural and remote areas across Australia.

“Labor in Government will work with States and Territories, and relevant training bodies to address the skills shortage in provision of sexual and reproductive health services. “National Conference welcomes commitments from Party Leadership that a Federal Labor Government will use Commonwealth and State funding agreements to secure safe, affordable, accessible abortion across Australia.

“National Conference calls on all Labor Governments and Caucuses to prioritise reproductive and sexual healthcare policies in their legislative agendas.”

Health spokeswoman Catherine King moves the motion, which is seconded by CPSU deputy secretary Beth Vincent-Pietsch, who tells delegates about having an abortion at the age of 19, and of having red paint thrown at her by anti-abortion activists on her way into a Sydney clinic.

The resolution is carried on the voices.

Rachel Baxendale 11.42am: Improve prisoner healthcare

Indigenous public health campaigner and Victorian delegate Sheena Watt moves a resolution on healthcare for prisoners, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander prisoners.

“Labor understands that prisoners, and particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander prisoners, face unique health care challenges and inequities,” the resolution reads.

“The level of healthcare that people experience in prisons affects their ability to reintegrate into the community following release as well as their life long health outcome.

“Labor will work with the states and territories, which are responsible for prisons, to enhance the provision and cultural appropriateness of health services for prisoners.

“As a part of this, Labor will ensure that the commitment to Close the Gap for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders will include improving health outcomes for prisoners.”

Rachel Baxendale 11.37am: Better access for disability pension

The next amendment relates to mental health and is moved by NSW senator Deb O’Neill and Queensland MP Cathy O’Toole.

The amendment commits to improving access and affordability for assessment for the Disability Support Pension on mental health grounds.

It is carried.

Rachel Baxendale 11.35am: New blood donor rules passed

ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr moves an amendment relating to Australian Red Cross Blood Service protocol with respect to men who have sex with men.

Currently the Red Cross will not take blood from men who have had sex with men within the last 12 months.

The motion acknowledges that the Red Cross has previously recommended that the current 12 month deferral period for men who have sex with men is excessive and beyond what is required to maintain a safe blood supply, and notes that the Blood Service is currently reviewing the deferrals policy again.

“Labor will act urgently on any advice from the Blood Service and the Therapeutic Goods Administration to reduce the deferral period for men who have sex with men,” the amendment reads.

“This will increase blood supply and reduce the inequality and social harm caused by this discriminatory policy.”

The amendment passes.

Rachel Baxendale 11.30am: Add Q to LGBTI

Next up is a raft of amendments relating to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Queer health.

The amendments predominantly involve the addition of “Q” to LGBTIQ.

Rainbow Labor delegate Claudia Laidlaw speaks in favour of the amendments, which are passed.

Rachel Baxendale 11.20am: Motion for low survival rate cancers

Tasmanian senator Katryna Bilyk reveals she suffered a benign brain tumour, as she moves an amendment committing to providing people with low survival rate cancers with greater opportunities for referral, diagnosis and access to treatment.

Queensland senator Chris Ketter also speaks in favour of the motion, as do former Queensland MP Linda Lavarch and Victorian delegate Dimity Paul.

Rachel Baxendale 11.10am: Skin cancer passes

Another amendment pledging to “support public education campaigns to prevent skin cancer and reduce mortality of Australia’s most common cancer” also passes without discussion.

Rachel Baxendale 11.05am: ‘Fairer access to dental care’

An amendment on oral health, pledging to “deliver fairer and timely access to dental care by taking steps towards the establishment of universal dental care, beginning with the expansion of the provision of dental care to the most vulnerable in our community and also focus on prevention of oral diseases,” is carried without discussion.

Rachel Baxendale 11.00am: ‘Reinvest in health’

The first health amendment, moved by Tasmanian Opposition Leader Rebecca White and Queensland federal MP Milton Dick, relates to Medicare.

“Only Labor created Medicare, and only Labor can be trusted with health and hospitals,” the amendment reads.

“The Liberals’ cuts and neglect have made health care more expensive and less accessible for every Australian.

“A Labor government will reinvest in our universal health care system, including prevention, general practice and primary care, and public hospitals.”

A host of other delegates also speak, including Queensland federal MP Susan Lamb, SA state MP Christopher Picton, Essential Media’s Bradley Chilcott, and Tasmanian senator Catryna Bilyk.

Rachel Baxendale 10.50am: Health up next

The Rudds leave to a standing ovation and ALP President Wayne Swan declares the motion passed.

The next item on the agenda is health, introduced by Catherine King, who kicks off with criticism of Coalition cuts to health funding.

Ms King says a high quality health system is “core business” for Labor.

“There is nothing more important to us.”

Julie Collins seconds the introduction, highlighting mental health provisions as a priority.

Rachel Baxendale 10.40am: ‘Hope you’ll make a difference’

A tearful Therese Rein then speaks.

“Being part of this great movement, the Labor Party, has been an enormous part of my life,” she says.

She speaks of growing up in Adelaide, and of the opportunities she was afforded due to Labor reforms.

“I hope for a more sustainable Australia, a more inclusive Australia,” she says.

“I hope that you will be able to make a huge difference in this country and restore hope,” Ms Rein says to Bill Shorten and his team.

Rachel Baxendale 10.35am: ‘You’ve got a great mob’

Mr Rudd also pays tribute to Labor Party members, Mr Shorten and his front bench.

“You’ve got a great mob,” he says.

“I have every confidence that Bill can be taking this team to form the next Labor government of Australia.”

He then turns to wife Therese, noting that they’ve been married for 37 years.

“It’s been a journey, and in the highs and the lows, she’s been with me all the way, a woman of extraordinary strength, extraordinary ability and extraordinary compassion.”

Rudd receives a standing ovation.

Rachel Baxendale 10.30am: ‘Time for healing’

Mr Rudd speaks of his childhood, and attributes his ability to get a university education to Gough Whitlam.

“My life since then has just been the simple business of how do you pay it back?” he says.

“That’s why 37 years ago I joined this party.”

Mr Rudd says he agrees with Mr Shorten that it’s time for healing

“For us that time has well and truly come. It’s why I’m here,” he says.

He notes the “disagreements” of the past, and says: “Let’s let history be the judge.”

Rudd then turns to the Liberal Party, beginning with criticism of Malcolm Turnbull, before turning to key members of the front bench.

“You’ve got Malcolm who says he’s not a miserable ghost. My God he’s doing a good impression of being one.”

He then turns to his favourite media organisation, Rupert Murdoch’s News Corporation, of which The Australian is part.

“It’s not a news organisation, it’s a political party,” Rudd says, before speaking at length about his disdain for the Murdoch press.

“Dealing with the Murdoch mafia is kind of like dealing with a daily evisceration,” he says.

Rachel Baxendale 10.25am: Rudd honours ‘formidable’ Gillard

Shorten says it’s time for healing, “to make peace with our past in the same way we are united for our future”.

“In the spirit of unity and solidarity and gratitude and respect,” Mr Shorten moves to bestow life membership on all three former PMs and Ms Rein.

Mr Rudd and Ms Rein make their way to the stage.

Rudd begins by acknowledging the traditional owners of the land, referring to his apology to the stolen generations and welcoming Shorten’s reconciliation action plan.

He pays tribute to his fellow former Labor prime ministers Bob Hawke, Paul Keating and “the very formidable Julia Gillard”.

Mr Rudd also hailed “the next Labor prime minister of Australia Bill Shorten.”

He praised Mr Shorten for “his strength, his resilience, his capacity to build consensus in what is often a motley crew.”

Ewin Hannan 10.20am: Backing for ban of employer law firms

Federal Labor has backed the banning of law firms with a history of acting against unions from getting lucrative government legal work.

Conference delegates supported the controversial move against employer law firms after lobbying by unions, including Victorian construction union leader John Setka.

A conference resolution says federal government outsourcing of legal and consultative work to anti-worker firms has become a feature of the Coalition government.

‘The government’s approach has been an inefficient, costly exercise where taxpayer funds have propped up anti-worker firms who have often been Liberal Party donors,’ it says.

Delegates commended a similar move against law firms by the Victorian ALP.

The Victorian platform says state Labor will “consider legal and industrial relations records of law firms and other organisations and oppose engagement of those organisations found to have a history of anti-worker or anti-union activity”.

‘This national conference endorses the same approach for a future Federal Labor Government including future appointments,’ the national resolution says.

Jobs and Industrial Relations Minister Kelly O’Dwyer said the conference decision was “nothing more than a blank cheque to John Setka to use taxpayer funds to benefit union mates”.

“This decision is a radical change and would be used to threaten any lawyer or firm that took a case against a union which would result in undermining the fairness of our legal system,’ she said.

Rachel Baxendale 10.15am: Standing ovation for Rudds

The whole Rudd family is greeted with a standing ovation from Labor delegates.

Bill Shorten says it’s his privilege to propose that the conference honour Paul Keating, Kevin Rudd and Julia Gillard with life membership.

Mr Shorten says Keating, “a hero of the true believers”, sends his regards.

Keating gets big applause.

There are even bigger cheers for Julia Gillard, who is also absent.

“She too sends her regards. She was a fierce champion of education.”

Mr Shorten then introduces Mr Rudd, to more subdued clapping, with no cheers.

Rudd gets a bigger cheer when Shorten praises him for abolishing Work Choices.

Shorten also notes Rudd nemesis Wayne Swan’s role, with Rudd, in helping Australia avoid recession during the GFC.

He then pays tribute to Ms Rein.

“Therese you brought such zest and joy and drive to your role,” he says.

Rachel Baxendale 10.05am: Conference kicks off

The conference is about to get underway, with the suspension of standing orders so that former prime ministers Kevin Rudd, Julia Gillard and Paul Keating can be presented with honorary life membership.

Ms Gillard and Mr Keating will not be attending.

It is understood ALP president and former Rudd treasurer Wayne Swan, whose frosty relationship with Mr Rudd is well known, will throw to Opposition Leader Bill Shorten who will present Mr Rudd and his wife Therese Rein with their honorary life memberships.

Mr Rudd and Ms Rein are then expected to speak.

The first policy agenda item this morning will be health, which will be introduced by Catherine King and seconded by Julie Collins.

Amendments are expected to be moved on Medicare and dental and mental health, with a number of resolutions set to be moved including one on access to safe abortion.

The abortion amendment will not be binding.

Conference will then move to Industrial relations, which will be introduced by Brendan O’Connor and seconded by Terri Butler.

Key amendments addressing the gender pay gap will be moved by Tanya Plibersek and Bill Shorten.

There will also be amendments on industrial manslaughter and the abolition, foreshadowed by WA senator Pat Dodson yesterday, of the remote work-for-the-dole scheme the Community Development Program.

ALP National Secretary Noah Carroll will then present his report and present some amendments to party rules.

As a consequence, a previously planned debate over party rules is no longer expected to take place this afternoon.

After lunch the chapter on “Australia’s place in the world” is expected to generate debate on controversial issues such as nuclear power and Palestine.

Richard Ferguson 9.55am: ‘No softening’ on boats

Opposition communications spokeswoman Michelle Rowland has dismissed concerns about Labor’s softening on refugee policy yesterday at the ALP National Conference.

“This is a furphy coming from a government scared of losing a vote on the floor of the parliament,” she told Sky News.

“Our position all along has been that people who require medical attention, urgent medical attention, especially children in detention, should receive that on the advice of doctors.

“The Minister will always have a role in the process. And it’s completely dishonest for (Home Affairs Minister) Peter Dutton and the Liberals to suggest otherwise.”

Ms Rowland also said increasing the refugee intake and boosting support to the UN High Commission on Refugees would be “underlined” by a strong stance on border protection.

9.10am: Conroy withdraws from executive ballot

Former Labor senator Stephen Conroy has withdrawn from the ballot for the all-powerful ALP national executive after the party’s Right faction was divided over who should sit on it.

The Right was split over whether to back Mr Conroy or Tim Kennedy, the national secretary of the National Union of Workers, for another term on the national executive.

Paul Kelly 8.20am: No compassion if boats reappear

The price for Labor Party compassion is high. And compassion towards refugees is the trade-off the party demands to allow Bill Shorten to stop the boats.

Labor will bring 32,000 refugees to Australia annually in its offshore program when it is fully operational. The party is now moving onto the political offensive over refugees. The drums of compassion are beating across the ­waters. Labor will not tolerate keeping people on Manus and Nauru. It stands for more refugee numbers, huge funding increases for UNHCR regional programs, more pro-refugee diplomacy and more offshore medical removals.

The Labor compassion edifice rests upon a critical foundation — boat turnbacks to secure the borders. Labor is building an anti-Liberal compassion strategy on its declared conviction it will deny any restart of the smugglers’ trade.

Read the article in full here.

7.10am: Former PMs made lifetime members

Paul Keating, Kevin Rudd and Julia Gillard will today be made lifetime members of the ALP.

Mr Keating’s lifetime membership comes more than 20 years after he left office while Mr Rudd and Ms Gillard receive the honour five years on from their bitter political battles.

Labor leader Bill Shorten said not enough has been done to recognise past prime ministers, particularly in the wake of the fractious Rudd-Gillard-Rudd years.

“It’s my view that, as a party, we have not always done enough in the past to recognise and pay proper respect to Labor leaders who have led our party and our nation as prime minister,” Mr Shorten said.

“I hope this can be an opportunity for all proud Labor members to acknowledge your service in a spirit of unity and solidarity.”

Mr Rudd will be in Adelaide to accept his membership in person. Ms Gillard and Mr Keating aren’t expected to attend.

AAP

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Forget about excitement, it’s unity we’re after
GRAHAM RICHARDSON

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Original URL: https://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/2018-labor-national-conference-health-jobs-on-the-agenda/news-story/b093881f2d27408dcb8e4022df942982