In a relaxed and rollicking interview on Brisbane’s Nova radio, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese mixed banter, music nostalgia and politics, declaring confidently, “Australia is the best country in the world.”
Albanese made a rockstar-style entrance — timed perfectly with a Rihanna track — prompting the hosts to joke, “I’m not coming in until they play Rihanna,” to which the PM quipped, “Exactly.”
The light-hearted conversation drifted into 90s music, Origin footy heartbreak, DJing days, and his love for the South Sydney Rabbitohs. He cheekily admitted he’d only made it to one game this year — the one where Souths pipped the Broncos with Latrell Mitchell’s heroics, to the despair of Queensland fans.
“You’re doubling down on us,” laughed the hosts as Albanese recalled Latrell’s epic field goal and tackle on a “rampaging Payne Haas,” which left Broncos fans crushed.
But the banter gave way to more serious reflections on political life. The PM noted that politics is “an honourable profession” but not for the faint-hearted, stressing the personal toll, public scrutiny, and resilience required.
“You’ve got to be motivated by wanting to make a difference,” he said, recalling moments where government policies had tangibly helped Australians, from housing support to single parent payments.
Albanese also shared insights on upcoming infrastructure plans tied to the Brisbane 2032 Olympics. He assured listeners that the government was committed to delivering value-for-money legacy projects, like a new arena and upgraded facilities, hinting at a mix of public and private investment.
“It will happen,” he said confidently, adding that the Games would be a moment for Brisbane to shine — just like Sydney did in 2000.
The PM wrapped with fond memories of cheering on weightlifters over beers during the Sydney Olympics:
“Everyone in the audience wants everyone to be successful.”
With cracking one-liners, classic rock throwbacks, and a dose of optimism, the Prime Minister’s Nova appearance served up Albanese at his most relatable — part fan, part leader, and all in for Australia.
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