In a historic win on Saturday, May 3, 2025, Anthony Albanese has become the first Australian prime minister in 21 years to secure a second consecutive term. His center-left Labor Party is projected to expand its narrow majority in the 151-seat House of Representatives, marking a significant political achievement for the leader.
Albanese addressed supporters in a jubilant victory speech, where he expressed gratitude not only for the electoral win but also for his family. "Serving as your prime minister is the great honour of my life, and it is with a deep sense of humility and a profound sense of responsibility that the first thing that I do tonight is to say thank you to the people of Australia for the chance to continue to serve the best nation on earth," he stated, as cheers of "Albo, Albo, Albo" echoed from the crowd.
In a heartfelt moment, he thanked his son, Nathan, and paid tribute to his fiancée, Jodie Haydon. "To my son, Nathan, who has grown into a fine young man who I am just so proud of. Thank you," Albanese said. Nathan, who holds a business degree from the University of Technology, Sydney, is a significant part of Albanese's life. Addressing Haydon, he added, "Probably wasn’t expecting this to be in your life half a dozen years ago. I am so grateful for your support, your friendship and your love. You make me so happy, which matters, you have my heart, I love you and I look forward to living our lives together."
At 61 years old, Albanese is set to make history again as the first Australian prime minister to marry while in office. He and Haydon, who have been engaged since February 2024, had previously considered eloping on Valentine’s Day, a plan they eventually shelved due to public interest. "We just wanted to keep something for ourselves, amid everything else," Albanese hinted in a recent interview.
While the couple has not disclosed a specific wedding date, Albanese's electoral victory could finalize long-standing logistical details, including the venue. In his victory speech, he emphasized a message of independence from foreign influence, subtly critiquing the political style of U.S. President Donald Trump. "Australians have chosen to face global challenges the Australian way, looking after each other while building for the future," he remarked. "We do not need to beg or borrow or copy from anywhere else. We do not seek our inspiration overseas. We find it right here in our values and in our people."
Albanese's victory was underscored by the concession of Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, who not only acknowledged his defeat but also lost the parliamentary seat he had held for 24 years. This loss marks a significant shift in the political landscape of Australia.
As Albanese and Haydon navigate their wedding plans, they are aiming for a small, intimate ceremony. The couple has expressed a desire for simplicity, with Albanese confirming that their dog, Toto, will play the role of ring bearer. "It won’t be elaborate," he noted, emphasizing their preference for a modest celebration.
Questions about the wedding venue remain, with suggestions ranging from The Lodge in Canberra to their $4.3 million property in Copacabana. The couple has not been actively planning the wedding in the lead-up to the election, with Albanese stating, "We’re waiting to get through the election, our focus is on that. And after that, of course."
Albanese, who was previously married to Carmel Tebbutt from 2000 until their separation in 2019, became the first divorcee to be appointed prime minister in 2022. He revealed that he consulted his 24-year-old son, Nathan, for his opinion before proposing to Haydon, reflecting the close relationship they share. "I respect him and have a good relationship with him, and with his mother. So I asked him to think about it, and then he came back to me and Nathan was supportive," Albanese shared.
As the couple prepares for their future together, Haydon, who plans to continue her career as head of strategic partnerships at Teachers Mutual Bank, expressed excitement about their upcoming nuptials. "We’re doing it in front of family and loved ones, and I see that as … for us. It’s something we’re looking forward to – an important and symbolic way to reaffirm our commitment with each other," she said.
With Albanese's re-election and the personal milestones ahead, the next chapter for both the prime minister and his fiancée is shaping up to be a significant one in Australian political and social history. As they look forward to their wedding and the responsibilities of governance, the couple's journey reflects a blend of public duty and private joy.
