Labor Party to Debate Energy Tax Changes and Gaza Motion at National Conference

Labor will debate changes to energy policy at its national conference this week that could save approximately $2.5 billion annually by winding back diesel fuel credits for miners, farmers and other industries. The triennial conference, which begins Thursday in Adelaide, will also consider a draft platform paragraph stating that Labor will ensure Australians receive a fairer return from natural resources through appropriate taxation arrangements, a reference to a possible gas export tax.

Ministers had reviewed diesel credits and gas revenue before the closure of the Strait of Hormuz created a fuel shortage and altered discussions on fossil fuels.

The party is also negotiating its position on the Israeli government ahead of the three-day gathering. A group called Labor for Palestine has proposed using the term "genocide" in a motion on the conflict in Gaza and including support for the boycott, divestment and sanctions movement.

MPs from both factions are working toward a motion that criticises Israeli military policy and actions in the West Bank while also addressing Hamas. The Right faction has resisted some of the proposed language, and some members have suggested allowing hardline elements to present their views on the conference floor.

The Left faction will push for a legislative change to overturn the federal ban on using phones, video or email to discuss voluntary assisted dying with a doctor. All six Australian states and the Australian Capital Territory have legalised the practice, but the federal Criminal Code Act currently prohibits using a carriage service to counsel or incite suicide.