Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will announce a major expansion of the federal government's paid work experience program, providing financial assistance to students in 10 additional fields for mandatory placements. The announcement will be made in his opening speech at the Labor national conference on Thursday, where he will frame practical policies as key to addressing public anxiety.
Expanded Placement Payments
Starting 1 July 2027, students in clinical psychology, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech pathology, paramedicine, radiography, pharmacy, rehabilitation therapies, audiology, and podiatry will receive up to $338.60 per week during clinical or professional placements. The program currently covers teaching, nursing, midwifery, and social work. This expansion follows pressure from MPs including David Pocock and Helen Haines, who presented a 43,000-signature petition calling for allied health inclusion.
Conference Agenda and Internal Debates
The triennial conference will set Labor's policy agenda for the next three years, with 400 delegates debating the 126-page draft platform. Key issues include a commitment to increase taxes on gas exports and wind back fuel tax credits, which are expected to be enshrined in the official party platform as long-term expectations. The left faction is pushing amendments to cap fuel tax credits for mining companies, supported by the Labor Environment Action Network and MP Jerome Laxale. However, the government is unlikely to act quickly due to global oil market uncertainty from the Middle East conflict.
Gaza War and Protests
Tension surrounds Saturday's debate on Israel and Palestine. Jewish groups and Israel's embassy are pressuring Labor to strengthen criticism of Hamas, while pro-Palestine supporters seek stronger language against Israel. Senior Labor figures believe the draft strikes the right balance, making a contested floor debate unlikely. A Students for Palestine protest is planned Thursday outside the Adelaide Convention Centre, which has increased security for the 3000-person conference.
Albanese's Message
In his speech, Albanese will contrast Labor with political opponents, particularly One Nation, warning that "raging against a system" without a plan doesn't "take the country forward." He will say: "I understand that for many Australians right now, looking to the future runs second to the immediate pressures they are under. That is why our focus remains squarely on helping with the cost of living, on the practical measures that matter to people and make a positive difference to their lives."
Other Policy Debates
The left is also pushing for stronger positions on online gambling harm, including a national regulator, ahead of Friday's debate. The draft platform already goes further than the government's gambling advertising legislation, committing to address inducements offered by wagering companies. A ban on inducements and a national regulator were among recommendations from the Murphy report omitted from the government's bill.
