Our history
The Australian Labor Party (ALP) was first formed in Queensland in 1891 and, during the ten years that followed, separate Labor parties emerged in other colonial states. All were sponsored by the trade union movement, which participated actively in the foundation of the infant political movement.
The Australian Labor Party became a federal party when the former Australian colonies federated in 1901. As a federal party, it is 20 years older than the Country Party (now known as the National Party) and 45 years older than the Liberal Party.
The Victorian Branch of the ALP (Victorian Labor) was formed at Federation, and was built on a history of labour movement involvement in the Victorian Parliament.
About the Party
The ALP, both nationally and in Victoria, is a genuine labour party in the sense that trade unions are part of its structure. Although they may have common ideals and philosophies, this distinguishes a labour party from a social democratic party and from broad-based progressive parties such as the United States’ Democratic Party.
Like Australia itself, the Australian Labor Party is a federal organisation. Each state and territory has its own branch, with its own membership, rules and policies. These branches come together to form a national ALP organisation.
This is expressed most visibly through the National Conference and the National Secretariat, which are responsible for determining the Party’s national direction and administration.
Our values
The Values Statement of the Party is stated hereunder:
Victorian Labor values achieving social justice, fairness, inclusion and equality. The Party is a collective cause and larger than any individual. We value honesty and integrity, and seek to ensure that the Party is a safe, inclusive and respectful environment.
We are proud of our deep roots and history in the labour movement. We support workers organising in union to achieve justice, fairness and equity. Our members, volunteers and supporters are our greatest assets.
Prejudice and discrimination — including sexism, racism, ableism, homophobia and transphobia — have no place in our party.
We celebrate the diversity of our Party.
We support one another because we are stronger together.
This is Labor
