Pro-Palestine rally leaders credit public ‘pressure’ with Labor’s shift on Gaza

Change of heart on ceasefire shows ‘collective action is working’, Sydney protest speaker says

• Get our morning and afternoon news emails, free app or daily news podcast

Speakers at Sydney’s pro-Palestine rally have said public outcry against the war in Gaza has pushed the Albanese government to shift its position and back calls for a humanitarian ceasefire, while criticising Labor for not calling for a permanent end to the conflict.

On Wednesday Australia joined 152 other nations in voting in favour of a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza and an immediate and unconditional release of all hostages in an emergency session of the United Nations general assembly. The move followed Australia’s decision in late October to abstain from casting a vote on a similar motion.

Sign up for Guardian Australia’s free morning and afternoon email newsletters for your daily news roundup