Labor condemns the recent violence against protesters in Myanmar, in which at least 18 people have died.

Reports that security forces opened fire on peaceful protesters are deeply distressing and such actions are completely unacceptable.

The people of Myanmar have shown enormous courage in the wake of the 1 February coup in expressing their support for democracy and human rights.

It has been a month since the coup, but the Australian government has still not made clear what it has done to oppose the recent actions of the Tatmadaw, including the mass arrests of democratically elected leaders, political figures and protesters.

The Morrison Government must send a strong signal to the Tatmadaw that the bilateral relationship won’t return to business as usual until democracy is restored.

Amid the escalating crackdown against protesters by the military regime, the Australian Government must explain what steps it is taking to support the people of Myanmar and to oppose the coup.

Marise Payne instead referred to the ‘incoming government of Myanmar’ on the 9th of February and has announced reviews into bilateral cooperation.

This is response is simply not good enough – Australia cannot be a bystander to a direct attack on Myanmar’s democracy.

Authorised by Paul Erickson, ALP, Canberra.