Prime Minister Anthony Albanese advocates a holiday to celebrate if the Matildas win the World Cup and makes a deal with Emmanuel Macron
- State leaders have debated a public holiday if the Matildas win
- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says he will support the holiday
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has raised hopes of a public holiday if the Matildas win the World Cup, saying the team have been “inspiring the nation”.
Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Mr Albanese supported the idea, but cautioned that it was up to state and territory leaders to decide.
“All of Australia will be looking at the Matildas and cheering for them,” he said.
“I certainly wish the Matildas the best at 5:00 pm this afternoon at Suncorp.”
In response to criticism of the idea from industry groups who argue that the move could cost the economy billions of dollars, Albanese denied that was the case.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (above) has raised hopes for a public holiday if the Matildas win the World Cup.
Albanese tweeted (above) on Saturday calling on French Prime Minister Emmanuel Macron to participate in a deal in which the losing country’s prime minister will have to support the winning country in the semi-finals.
“I note concerns were raised when we had the public holiday over the sad death of Queen Elizabeth II and some said it would cause economic disruption,” he said.
“What that did, of course, was lead to more economic activity in a lot of businesses, particularly small businesses.”
He promised to raise the prospect with prime ministers and senior ministers at next week’s national cabinet meeting.
Mr. Albanese will attend Australia’s quarter-final clash on Saturday night in person.
Despite appearing at the Mount Isa Rodeo in North West Queensland just hours earlier, Mr Albanese was seen heading to Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium shortly before 4pm.
Earlier in the day, the prime minister struck an agreement with his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron.
Albanese applauded the Matildas (above), saying the team has been “inspiring the nation.”
Depending on the winner of tonight’s game, the prime minister of the losing country will be required to support the winning country in the semi-finals.
‘How about a bet @EmmanuelMacron? If @TheMatildas wins tonight, you’ll support Australia in the semi-finals. If the @equipedefranceF wins, I will support France. Deal? #GoMatildas’, Albanese tweeted on Saturday afternoon.
It seemed to get a positive reaction from Macron, who is known to be an avid soccer fan.
‘The World Cup is brilliantly co-hosted by you, Australia. It’s an honor to face the Matildas in the quarter-finals today, but don’t worry: Les Bleues will take the lead! Deal.’
