What we learned, Monday 11 August
We will wrap up the live blog here for the evening. This is what made the news today:
The prime minister, Anthony Albanese, announced Australia will move to recognise Palestinian statehood at the UN in September.
The federal government said the Israeli government was “extinguishing the prospect of a two-state solution” with its actions in Gaza.
Albanese revealed he spoke with his Israeli counterpart, Benjamin Netanyahu, last week.
Sussan Ley and the Coalition opposition said they have “serious concerns about the Albanese government’s decision to unilaterally recognise a Palestinian state outside of a proper peace and two-state process”.
Netanyahu said Australia would take similar action If there were a catastrophe like Hamas’ 7 October attack “right next to Melbourne or right next to Sydney”, issuing a forceful defence of the country’s plans to take military control of Gaza City.
Environment minister Murray Watt apologised to South Australians who felt the government was too slow to act on the algal bloom.
Kathleen Folbigg says NSW premier Chris Minns’ suggestions she sue the state for more than the $2m in compensation are a “slap in the face”.
JB Hi-Fi’s CEO, Terry Smart, announced he’ll resign from the company for a second time, after handing down a big payout for investors.
Thanks for following along. Until tomorrow.
Updated
Victorian premier welcomes Australia’s move to recognise Palestinian state
The Victorian premier, Jacinta Allan, has released a statement confirming she supports the federal government’s decision to join with the international community in recognising a Palestinian state at the UN general assembly.
She said:
We have long advocated for a two-state solution to deliver real peace and a secure future for the people of Israel and the people of Palestine. That future is now a step closer. It is a future in which the Hamas terrorist organisation must play no part.
We believe this long and horrific conflict can have a just and enduring end, and that Australia can play a meaningful role in achieving it. The Victorian government’s role is to ensure peace here at home by defending our values of respect and safety for all.
Updated
