Albanese apologises after criticism over Kylie Minogue remarks

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has apologised unequivocally for remarks he made about Kylie Minogue during a podcast interview released at the end of last week. The interview took place at the prime minister’s official residence in Canberra and was recorded for the Bush Deep podcast, presented by comedian Nikki Osborne. During the 20-minute conversation, Osborne asked whether he would “shag, marry or date” Minogue, Nicole Kidman or Rhonda Burchmore. Albanese first tried to avoid the question, saying he had just got married, but later answered: “Oh, Kylie, clearly.” He then added: “All of the above. She’s terrific.” The comments were condemned by MPs, including Zali Steggall, who called them entirely inappropriate, and Sarah Henderson, who said they were disrespectful to women and demeaned the office of prime minister. Richard Marles, acting prime minister while Albanese visits the Pacific, said the government is utterly committed to the elevation of women in society and noted that it was the first government in history to have equal numbers of men and women in cabinet.