Anthony Albanese poses with ‘Big Con’ book by economist Mariana Mazzucato amid growing cost of living criticism

A smiling Anthony Albanese was photographed holding a book titled ‘The Big Con’ during a recent meeting with a prominent economist.

The Prime Minister met Italian financial expert Mariana Mazzucato last Friday, as part of his week-long visit to Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne.

The enthusiastic author shared four photos alongside Mr Albanese, three of which showed him holding his books.

However, one unfortunate title stood out from the rest: The Big Con.

A senior opposition source told Daily Mail Australia “it’s great to see the Prime Minister address his slippery status with the truth.”

The title of the economic book was omitted from Mr. Albanese’s own message in which he detailed his meeting with Ms. Mazzucato.

“With changes in our global economy, my goal is to ensure Australia stays ahead of the curve,” he wrote.

“I met with the brilliant Mariana Mazzucato, Professor of Economics at University College London, to discuss how our plan for an Australian-made future is translating into stronger industry and better-paying jobs.”

Ms Mazzucato said she and Mr Albanese were using their time together to discuss Australia’s economic future.

“It was great to meet Anthony Albanese to discuss the government’s economic agenda,” she wrote.

“I raised the need for a challenge-driven approach to bring government, business and unions together around a green industrial strategy with social justice at the centre.”

Since Mr Albanese was elected in May 2022, he has faced increasing criticism over his party’s policies. managing the increasing cost of living crisis.

This unfortunate photo is far from the worst photo of the Australian Prime Minister, with Tony Abbott’s Reject Shop photo from 2015 still being a fan favorite.

The then Prime Minister was photographed en route to a small butcher’s shop at Canberra’s Kippax Fair shopping centre.

However, a poorly timed photo outside The Reject Shop saw the Prime Minister labeled ‘The Reject’.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Anthony Albanese’s office for comment.