Prime Minister Antony Albanese made history once again on Saturday, becoming the first sitting Australian prime minister to marry while in office. The ceremony took place at The Lodge in Canberra, where Albanese exchanged vows with his partner Jodie Haydon in an intimate gathering of family and friends.
The couple, who released a joint statement expressing their joy, said, “We are absolutely delighted to share our love and commitment to spending our future lives together, in front of our family and closest friends.” The event was attended by approximately 60 guests, including prominent figures such as Treasurer Jim Chalmers and other members of the Labor Party. Notably absent were any world leaders.
Ms. Haydon walked down the aisle adorned in an intricate long-sleeved white dress, designed by Romance was Born, embellished with floral motifs. Accompanied by her parents, Bill and Pauline, she made her way to the music of Ben Folds’ song “The Luckiest.” Prime Minister Albanese complemented her attire in a classic black tuxedo from MJ Bale. The couple exchanged self-written vows, with their dog Toto serving as the ring bearer, while Ms. Haydon’s five-year-old niece, Ella, took on the role of flower girl.
Following the ceremony, joyous cheers erupted from the guests as the newlyweds walked back down the aisle to the upbeat tune of Stevie Wonder’s “Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours).” Celebrations included a unique touch as guests enjoyed beer from a special can produced by Willie the Boatman, a brewery located in Albanese’s Sydney electorate.
The couple also shared their first dance to Frank Sinatra’s classic “The Way You Look Tonight,” marking a memorable conclusion to the ceremony. Well wishes extended beyond their immediate circle, with Opposition Leader Sussan Ley offering her congratulations, stating, “I wish them every happiness as they continue building their lives together.”
Mr. Albanese and Ms. Haydon plan to enjoy a five-day honeymoon in Australia starting on Monday. The couple’s journey began in 2019 when they met at a business dinner in Melbourne. Albanese proposed to Haydon at The Lodge on Valentine’s Day in 2024, presenting her with a ring he helped design. Earlier that same year, they purchased a cliff-top home overlooking Copacabana Beach for $4.3 million.
Prior to his relationship with Ms. Haydon, Albanese was married to Carmel Tebbutt. They met through Young Labor in the late 1980s and share a son, Nathan Albanese, born in 2000. The couple separated in early 2019 after 19 years of marriage.
Albanese’s marriage marks a significant moment not just in his personal life but also in Australian political history, showcasing a new chapter for a leader who has already made a series of notable accomplishments.
