Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has lifted the hopes of a public holiday if the Matildas win the World Cup, saying the team has been “inspiring the nation”.
Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Mr Albanese threw his support behind the idea but warned it was up to the state and territory leaders to decide.
“The whole of Australia will be watching the Matildas and cheering them on,” he said.
“I certainly wish the Matildas the best at 5pm this afternoon at Suncorp.”
Responding to criticism of the idea by industry groups who argue the move could cost the economy billions of dollars, Mr Albanese denied that would be the case.
“I do note that there were concerns expressed when we had the public holiday for the sad death of Queen Elizabeth II and some said that was something that would cause economic disruption,” he said.
“What that did, of course, was lead to increased economic activity in a whole lot of businesses, particularly small businesses.”
He promised to raise the prospect with premiers and chief ministers at next week’s national cabinet meeting.
Mr Albanese will be attending Australia’s quarter-final clash in-person on Saturday evening.
Despite appearing at the Mount Isa Rodeo in northwest Queensland just hours earlier, Mr Albanese was spotted heading into Brisbane’s Suncorp stadium at just before 4pm.
Albo throws down gauntlet to France
Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister minted a deal with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron. Depending on the winner of tonight‘s game, the prime minister of the losing country will have to support the winning country at the semi-finals.
“How about a bet @EmmanuelMacron? If @TheMatildas win tonight, you’ll support Australia in the semi-finals. If the @equipedefranceF win, I’ll support France. Deal? #GoMatildas,” Mr Albanese tweeted on Saturday afternoon.
It seemed to have a positive reaction from Mr Macron, who is known for being an avid soccer fan.
“The World Cup is brilliantly co-organised by you, Australia. It‘s an honour to face the Matildas in the quarter-finals today, but no worries: Les Bleues will take the lead! Deal.”