Australia’s Labor Party is preparing for major policy debates at its national conference later this month, with artificial intelligence (AI), gambling reforms and the Middle East conflict expected to be among the key issues discussed. The party’s 2026 draft national platform includes an expanded focus on AI, reflecting growing public concerns about the impact of the technology on jobs, copyright protection, privacy and the resources needed to power large data centres. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to outline the government’s position on AI, emphasizing the need to balance innov

Australia’s Labor Party is preparing for major policy debates at its national conference later this month, with artificial intelligence (AI), gambling reforms and the Middle East conflict expected to be among the key issues discussed. The party’s 2026 draft national platform includes an expanded focus on AI, reflecting growing public concerns about the impact of the technology on jobs, copyright protection, privacy and the resources needed to power large data centres. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to outline the government’s position on AI, emphasizing the need to balance innovation and economic opportunities with safeguards to protect Australians. Labor’s updated policy platform proposes stronger oversight of AI systems, including measures to protect artists and content creators from unauthorized use of their work. The party also supports greater transparency, accountability and responsibility for harms caused by AI technologies. Concerns have increased among Australian artists and writers following discussions involving major AI companies and possible agreements on copyright. Creative groups have urged the government to maintain strong protections, arguing that creators should have control over how their work is used and should be properly compensated. Beyond AI, gambling reform is also expected to attract attention at the conference. Labor’s draft platform highlights the need to reduce gambling-related harm and strengthen measures against gambling “inducements” that encourage people to participate. The conference will also debate Labor’s position on Israel and Palestine. The updated platform includes calls against the annexation of Palestinian territories, opposition to illegal settlement activity and support for further action where necessary. The party reaffirmed its support for a two-state solution, while condemning terrorism and violence, including attacks carried out by Hamas. Labor’s national conference will take place in Adelaide at the end of July, where members are expected to finalize the party’s policy direction for the next three years.

Anthony Albanese is expected to outline his broad position on various concerns fuelling community anxiety about AI.

Holly Rankin, known professionally as Jack River, is among the creatives concerned about the laws

Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei said he hoped to arrive at a position on copyright laws that "works for everyone"

Andrew Charlton has previously ruled out granting AI companies exemptions to copyright laws.

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