At the end of the NSW Labor conference, a motion was passed challenging the federal government to prioritise recognition of Palestine as a sovereign and independent state.

“It’s been like that for a very long time. I expect it to be that into the future. I’m in a bit of a tough spot because the convention for us is that we don’t speak about the workings of the party room, but I acknowledge it’s given the speech last night.”

State MPs push to recognise Palestinian state

While non-binding, the motions represent the intention of members, often influencing party policy.

However, former cabinet minister Ed Husic last week revealed there was a “deep feeling” across the backbench and within caucus that it was right to recognise a Palestinian state, and urged the prime minister to capitalise on international momentum.