Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has addressed the British Labour conference in the UK, declaring to Western leaders that Australia, along with other Western nations, is fighting for democracy itself.
Speaking at the conference, Albanese said, “What I see here in UK Labour is the same determination that I know lives in every member of Australian Labor—an absolute resolve to stand together and defend democracy itself.”
Drawing on the success of Australia and Britain in rebuilding their societies after defeating Nazi Germany, Albanese emphasized that progressive parties must now tackle pressing issues such as the affordable housing crisis and the emerging threat posed by artificial intelligence.
As British Prime Minister Keir Starmer struggles in the polls and Nigel Farage’s far-right Reform party surges in popularity, Albanese stressed that traditional parties of government have a responsibility to demonstrate their ability to make practical improvements to people’s lives.
Albanese is the first Australian Labor leader to address the British Labour conference and was specifically invited to share advice on how to thrive as a centre-left party following his May election victory over Peter Dutton.
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In other news, a tragic mass shooting occurred overnight at a Mormon church in Michigan, leaving 10 people shot and two dead in hospital. The gunman reportedly drove through the doors of the church and opened fire on a packed service.
Authorities allege that the shooter also set part of the building on fire, raising concerns that more victims may be discovered once a full search of the premises is completed.
US President Donald Trump responded by calling the incident “another targeted attack on Christians,” referencing the recent assassination of Christian conservative Charlie Kirk.
The FBI has deployed 100 agents to the area, according to Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye. Meanwhile, US Attorney-General Pam Bondi described the attack as “chilling.”
As a precaution, the New York Police Department announced it will increase security at religious institutions across the city.
The shooter was killed by police, and authorities have confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the public.
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