Australia PM Albanese apologises as Kylie Minogue podcast comments trigger backlash

UPDATED: Jul 7, 2026 06:12 IST

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has apologised after comments he made about pop superstar Kylie Minogue during a comedy podcast sparked criticism from opposition politicians, independent lawmakers and women’s groups, reigniting debate over the conduct expected of national leaders.

The controversy stemmed from Albanese’s appearance on comedian Nikki Osborne’s “Bush Deep” podcast, released on Thursday. During the interview, Osborne invited the prime minister to take part in a version of the popular “shag, marry, date” game involving three well-known Australian women — singer Kylie Minogue, actor Nicole Kidman and entertainer Rhonda Burchmore.

Albanese initially attempted to sidestep the question, pointing out that he had only recently married his partner, Jodie Haydon. However, after repeated prompting, he selected Minogue. When Osborne pressed further, asking whether that meant he would marry, date and sleep with the singer, Albanese replied: “All of the above. She’s terrific.”

Another exchange from the podcast also attracted attention. Osborne jokingly asked whether Albanese and Haydon were still “bonking like rabbits” — a colloquial expression referring to a highly active sex life. The prime minister laughed off the question, saying, “Well, you know, when we have time,” before adding that a victory for his favourite rugby league club, the South Sydney Rabbitohs, was “always a good aphrodisiac.”

The remarks quickly drew criticism from politicians and women’s groups, who said they were inappropriate and beneath the office of Prime Minister. Critics argued that national leaders should challenge, rather than participate in, conversations that objectify women or trivialise public office.

As criticism mounted, Albanese issued a public apology on Monday. “I apologise unequivocally for the comments,” he said in a brief statement released by his office.

Among those condemning the remarks was Zali Steggall of the newly formed Community Strong Australia party.She criticised Albanese’s participation in the segment, telling The Australian that a prime minister should not take part in such a game. She argued that Albanese should have pushed back against the question and set an example by calling out what she described as sexist behaviour.

Opposition Senator Sarah Henderson accused Albanese of undermining the dignity of his office, saying his comments were disrespectful towards women and embarrassing for Australians. In a social media post, the Victorian senator criticised what she described as the prime minister’s “whisky-fueled” remarks and said he had lowered himself by engaging in such conversation.

Fellow opposition senator Maria Kovacic also criticised the episode, describing it as a poor lapse in judgment. Speaking to Sky News Australia, she said the controversy was an unnecessary distraction at a time when public attention should be focused on more significant national issues.

Albanese, who married his partner, Jodie Haydon, in November 2025 and became Australia’s first prime minister to marry while in office, received support from senior figures within the governing Labor Party. Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles pointed to the government’s record on gender equality, while Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek suggested the comments reflected admiration for one of Australia’s most recognisable entertainers rather than any intent to offend.

Minogue has not publicly responded to the controversy. The episode has nevertheless fuelled a wider discussion about the balance politicians must strike between appearing relatable and maintaining the decorum expected of the country’s highest elected office.

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