The Albanese government has seemingly walked back a promise to include questions on sexuality and gender diversity in the next census. The treasurer, Jim Chalmers, justified Labor’s decision by saying they wanted to prevent a divisive debate in the community, but the decision was met with criticism from LGBTQ+ rights groups. So why is Labor shying away from this conversation? Bridie Jabour speaks to editor-in-chief Lenore Taylor, national news editor Josephine Tovey and head of news Mike Ticher about whether Labor risks losing voters if they don’t deliver on their promises