There will be disagreement at next week’s Labor conference – but don’t expect the feuds of the past

It’s hoped a deliberate demonstration of ‘constructive unity’ by the party will entrench the public’s perception of Labor stability Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updates Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast The Labor national conference has long been the stage for settling the party’s most vexed debates, a triennial family feud fought with resolutions, amendments and factional deals. In 1982, the battle was about whether to ban new uranium mines. The 2015 conference was headlined by an emotion-charged debate about asylum seeker boat turn-backs, which ended with Anthony Albanese’s left faction on the losing side. In 2023, the party agreed to back the Aukus nuclear submarine program after an acrimonious debate that included shouts of “appeasement” from supporters to critics. As Labor MPs, trade unions and rank-and-file members prepare to descend next week on Adelaide for the party’s 50th national conference, debates are expected about gambling advertising, artificial intelligence in the workplace, fuel rebates for mining companies, interest rates and Israel and Palestine. The public arguments will expose internal divisions on