Australia has formally recognised Palestine as a sovereign state, becoming one of more than 150 countries to do so.

The move was previewed in August but became official on Sunday in a joint statement by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong.

"Australia recognises the legitimate and long-held aspirations of the people of Palestine to a state of their own," the pair said.

"Today's act of recognition reflects Australia's longstanding commitment to a two-state solution, which has always been the only path to enduring peace and security for the Israeli and the Palestinian people."

The declaration was matched by Canada and the United Kingdom, and comes as an Australian delegation led by the prime minister arrived in New York for the 80th session of the United Nation

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