The recent decision by PM Albanese not to proceed with an important ALP election promise unless the Opposition supports the proposal surely runs counter to the two-party culture often claimed to be a holy aspect of the Westminster political system. At issue is the ALP’s promise to protect the right of religious schools to practice their faith while also shielding teachers and students from discrimination on the basis of sexuality.

Clearly, the PM and the ALP have been shocked by the result of the Voice referendum and the unexpected capacity of Opposition leader Peter Dutton to generate serious protest largely on the basis of ignorance by voters. Albanese has now made it clear that unless the Opposition supports this planned move he won’t proceed with the reform. Once bitten twice shy has been the response but much more is at stake here. The promise is not kept on the basis of expected strong and damaging opposition. What would future promises mean in election campaigns if that becomes the........

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