The decision comes amid escalating concern about the dire situation in Gaza as Israel wages war against the Hamas militant group.

Israel’s ambassador to Australia said the move undermines his nation’s security, while the Coalition said it puts Australia offside with the US. How the day unfolded.

Australia’s announcement comes as Canada, France and the United Kingdom are also preparing to formally recognise Palestine at the meeting next month, joining the vast majority of UN member states that already do so.