Australia has officially recognised the state of Palestine, marking a shift in long-standing foreign policy, as Anthony Albanese walks a fine diplomatic line with the nation's most important security ally.

Australia, the UK and Canada's recognition of Palestinian statehood came into effect from Sunday night after the prime minister arrived in the US for a long-awaited United Nations General Assembly meeting.

The three countries have joined more than 140 United Nations member states that recognise Palestine in a bid to build momentum for a two-state solution as humanitarian suffering in Gaza worsens.

"Australia recognises the legitimate and long-held aspirations of the people of Palestine to a state of their own," Mr Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong said in a joint statement.

"T

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