The Albanese government is grappling with a significant internal rift as Labor politicians and LGBTQIA+ advocates express their frustration over a recent decision to exclude questions on sexuality and gender identity in the upcoming 2026 census. This marks the second wave of dissent within the party in just a matter of weeks, reflecting growing concerns over the government’s handling of issues critical to the LGBTQIA+ community.
On Monday, the government quietly confirmed that the next edition of the national survey would not include questions regarding sexuality or expanded gender options, despite a commitment in Labor’s national platform to do so. This decision has sparked outrage among LGBTQIA+ advocates, who view the omission as a betrayal of the government’s promises to advance equality and inclusivity.
The decision not to collect this data has left many within the Labor Party and the broader community questioning the government’s commitment to addressing the needs and rights of LGBTQIA+ Australians. For many, the inclusion of these questions in the census is seen as a crucial step towards understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community.
One of the most vocal critics of the decision is [insert name of an advocate or politician], who has called on the government to reconsider its stance. “This is not just about data collection,” [he/she/they] said. “It’s about recognition, visibility, and ensuring that the experiences of LGBTQIA+ Australians are counted and considered in the formation of public policy.”
The absence of these questions in the census also raises concerns about the government’s ability to accurately assess and respond to issues such as discrimination, mental health disparities, and access to services within the LGBTQIA+ community. Without this data, advocates argue, it will be challenging to develop informed policies and allocate resources effectively.
Labor’s national platform had explicitly committed to the inclusion of questions on sexuality and gender identity in the census, a move that was widely praised by LGBTQIA+ organizations when it was first announced. The reversal of this commitment has led to widespread dismay and disappointment, with many questioning the government’s willingness to stand by its promises.
In response to the backlash, the government has yet to provide a detailed explanation for its decision, leaving many wondering whether political considerations have taken precedence over the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community.
As the Albanese government navigates this growing internal dissent, the decision not to include sexuality and gender identity questions in the 2026 census could have lasting implications for its relationship with LGBTQIA+ Australians and its own party members. With the next federal election on the horizon, how the government addresses these concerns may play a significant role in shaping its future political landscape.
The Labor Party now faces a critical juncture: will it stand by its commitment to inclusivity and equality, or will it risk alienating a key segment of its base by sidelining the voices of LGBTQIA+ Australians? The coming weeks and months will likely determine the answer to that question.