About Open Labor

Open Labor is a non-aligned group in the Australian Labor Party seeking a to build a stronger party through a more open, democratic and optimistic politics. We welcome contributions from independents, factional members and all others seeking to grow a stronger and more democratic ALP, and we welcome all your inquiries.

For over a century the  Australian Labor Party (ALP) has fought for changes that have made Australia a better society. Open Labor believes the ALP is at its best when it debates and tackles the big issues, and draws on the wisdom and experience of all its members.

Since forming in 2013, Open Labor has participated in debates about the future of our party. Like other social democratic movements world wide, Open Labor thinks social democracy is at a cross-roads, driven by the failures of neo-liberal economics.

New ways of organising are needed to keep and progress our achievements; a more progressive and decent politics and the need to address income inequality,  climate change, the future of work and human well-being, the impact of globalisation and the new digital economy.

It is time to get Labor back to its best.

The Australian Labor Party is critical to creating a better future for Australia based on these principles. No other party can do it. But to do so it needs to be a party with integrity, that values its members, is democratic, well run, and committed to both bringing in traditional Labor supporters and creating new ones in order to grow.

We have no illusions about the size of the task, but we know most party members and supporters want change – a party open to new people, ideas and methods, more democratic, more optimistic and better connected with its members, supporters and the public.

The 2020–23 Federal Executive intervention into the Victorian Labor appointed party elders Jenny Macklin and Steve Bracks as Administrators. The final report arising from the Macklin Bracks inquiry now provides a critical opportunity to revitalise the party and strengthen members participation.

With the upcoming federal elections, the 2020 Somyurek affair and the Victorian Ibac Enquiry and the resultant Victorian ALP reforms arising, it is a good time to reflect on Churchill’s advice to never let a good crisis go to waste.

Independents Eric Dearricott, Janet McCalman and David Imbre and others have actively worked with Open Labor communications group on campaigns over national intervention and party reform and their contributions greatly enrich this website.

Open Labor thanks Durbach Block Jaggers for our logo.

Open Labor has plans to spread its reach. We will keep you informed. We seek your contributions  and encourage comments below the line.