The Australian Labor Party (ALP) has decided to place a disclaimer under the picture of Mark Latham in its caucus room gallery, stating that he was expelled for life and that his actions do not reflect Labor values. This decision follows a unanimous agreement during the first meeting of the new caucus, amid discussions on whether to remove Latham’s photograph altogether.
Latham, who led the party from 2003 to 2005, is currently an independent member of the New South Wales upper house. His past actions have recently come under intense scrutiny, particularly after his former partner accused him of a “sustained pattern” of domestic abuse in a civil court application for an apprehended violence order, which is set to be heard next week. Furthermore, he has been criticized for photographing women members without their consent, adding to a history of controversial incidents.
The wording of the disclaimer will read: “In 2017, Mark Latham was expelled from the Australian Labor Party and banned for life. His actions do not accord with Labor values and fail to meet the standards we expect and demand.” The decision reflects a divided opinion within the party, as various factions discussed the best course of action regarding Latham’s image.
Katy Gallagher, Minister for Women, expressed to the ABC that while some members felt the need to acknowledge Latham’s expulsion, it was important to recognize that his leadership style did not align with the contemporary values of the ALP. She stated, “I wasn’t there at the time, but I think it was a style of leadership that didn’t sit well with the values of the Australian Labor Party and it’s a type of leadership people wouldn’t want to return to.”
As the new parliamentary session opens on March 5, 2024, both Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Sussan Ley addressed their respective party rooms. Albanese emphasized the importance of maintaining discipline and purpose within the party, asserting that there is no reason Labor cannot secure re-election and even increase its numbers. He stated, “We’ve just been through an election, we had clear commitments and we want to deliver them.”
Conversely, Ley criticized Albanese’s recent interviews, which she interpreted as suggesting that the Coalition should “get out of the way.” She reaffirmed the Coalition’s commitment to cooperating on constructive policies, particularly regarding child care safety reforms, but stressed that they would oppose any legislation not in the national interest, including potential tax increases.
The backdrop to this parliamentary session has been challenging for the Coalition, following a significant election defeat. A recent Newspoll indicates that Labor has strengthened its position, now leading with 57% to 43% on a two-party basis. Labor’s primary vote stands at 36%, while the Coalition has fallen to 29%, marking the lowest recorded level in Newspoll’s history since its inception in the mid-1980s.
As the ALP navigates its internal dynamics and prepares for the legislative agenda ahead, the handling of Latham’s legacy remains a poignant reminder of the party’s evolving values and commitment to accountability.
