Labor senator Fatima Payman has crossed the floor to vote against her party on a motion related to Palestinian recognition.
It is the first time a Labor politician has crossed the floor while Labor is in government since 1986.
Labor party rules state that all members must vote in line with the position taken by the Labor caucus. It is then up to the caucus to decide on the penalty, which can include suspension from the caucus.
Expulsion from the Labor Party itself is a matter for the party’s national executive.
A brave move. Party discipline is very strong in this country, especially in Labor, and going against the party line is a big move. But it’s the right move. Good on her for standing up for what is right, even if her colleagues would rather tacitly support genocide.