Linda Burney was awarded life membership of the Australian Labor Party at the 50th ALP National Conference in Adelaide, on 24 July 2026. Unable to attend in person, she sent the following message, delivered at the Conference Dinner by Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy.
I recognise the Kaurna people of the Adelaide Plains.
This honour really and deeply means something to me.
And it pains me beyond measure that I cannot be in your warm embrace tonight.
There was never another Party for me.
Linda Burney, former Minister for Indigenous Australians and Member for Barton, at the Garma Festival.
I remember as a little girl listening to my great uncle – who raised me – and other drovers, talking about their working conditions around campfires –
And the blight of Menzies.
I was 10 years old at the 1967 referendum.
It instilled in me the importance of hope. And as we work to improve Australia – hope will help drive us all forward.
I joined the Labor family because we support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, support women – and because we all strive for social justice.
I want to pay tribute to our Prime Minister, the Cabinet, and the caucus –
And to every Party member for protecting Australia’s precious liberal democracy by staying grounded and improving people’s daily lives.
I am proud of the work I have done as a Labor member.
But none of it has been done alone.
It’s been a great privilege to be involved in The Harbour Bridge Walk, child protection reform, supporting young people.
My time as a federal Minister was the honour of a lifetime – together we did good things. Thank you.
As I approach my 70th year, I’ve learnt many life lessons.
Never take anything for granted. Live every moment fully. Value yourself.
My great hope is that communities across the country embrace truth telling – we will be a more grown-up nation for it.
This morning Labor Indigenous Political Pathways was launched – support it – it is a good and very Labor thing.
In closing - love our country, and protect our institutions.
Time in government is precious. Never assume. Never waste a moment.
Thank you, this recognition means the world to me.
Be brave.
Linda
