Anthony Albanese pushes for another holiday – but on one condition: ‘The prime ministers will fold up like tents’
- Anthony Albanese insists on a one-time holiday
- Aussies could get a day off if Matilda plays in the World Cup final
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will use the next national cabinet meeting to campaign for a federal holiday should the Matildas make it to the World Cup final.
With Sam Kerr expected to be back on the field, the Matildas take on Denmark in the do-or-die round of 16 games on Monday night.
Should they beat the Danes, the Matildas would face France or Morocco in the quarter-finals.
If they made it to the grand final – which will be played on August 20 – Albanese says he will issue a personal appeal to all state and territory leaders to institute a holiday.
Anthony Albanese can be seen in the stands during the Matildas match against Nigeria last week
“Public holidays belong to state and territory leaders. But you know, we have a national cabinet next week,” he told 2Day FM on Monday.
“I will make the argument clearly, and I think they will fold up like tents. They will go one after the other.
“Because if we can get there, that would be remarkable.”
Mr Albanese said Matilda’s fever had gripped the country, and that although he would not be able to attend Monday’s match due to parliamentary meetings, he would be eagerly watching.
The Women’s World Cup marks the first time many Aussies have experienced a huge football crowd and culture
“I think the legacy in 10 years, 15 years will be that young girls and young boys who watch the World Cup and are excited to participate,” he said.
And some of them will become Matildas or Socceroos. It’s just been fantastic.
“I couldn’t have imagined 30 years ago that you would fill stadiums for women’s team sports – it’s about time and it’s just fantastic.”
Mr Albanese also paid tribute to the national netball team, the Diamonds, who defeated England overnight in the World Cup final in South Africa.
“Australia will welcome them … We have been the most successful team in netball for some time,” he said.
The Matildas play against Denmark in Sydney and kick-off is at 8.30pm.