Key Takeaways
- Anthony Albanese becomes the first Australian Prime Minister to marry while in office.
- The secret ceremony took place at The Lodge in Canberra with 60 guests, including Russell Crowe.
- The wedding was delayed due to political concerns during a cost-of-living crisis.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has made history by marrying his partner Jodie Haydon while serving in office. The private ceremony took place on November 29, 2025, at his official Canberra residence, The Lodge.
This marks the first time in Australia’s 124-year federal history that a sitting Prime Minister has married. The couple exchanged personal vows in front of approximately 60 guests, including Oscar-winning actor Russell Crowe and several cabinet ministers.
Secret Ceremony Details
The media remained unaware of the wedding until after it concluded. In a joint statement, the couple expressed: “We are absolutely delighted to share our love and commitment to spending our future lives together, in front of our family and closest friends.”
Their dog Toto served as ring bearer, while Haydon’s 5-year-old niece, Ella, was the flower girl.
Political Considerations Delayed Wedding
Albanese, 62, proposed to Haydon, 46, on Valentine’s Day the previous year at The Lodge. Originally planning a larger celebration, the couple postponed their wedding due to political timing.
Labour Party strategists worried that a lavish ceremony during a cost-of-living crisis could damage re-election prospects. Albanese had previously mentioned considering an invitation to former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, a personal friend.
The wedding finally occurred two days after Parliament adjourned for the year. The couple first met at a Melbourne business dinner in 2020, where Haydon works in finance.
