BREAKING: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has made headlines by marrying Jodie Haydon in a historic ceremony at The Lodge in Canberra today, solidifying their commitment to one another in front of family and friends. This marks the first time a sitting Australian prime minister has tied the knot while in office.
The intimate spring wedding, attended by 60 close family and friends, took place outdoors at The Lodge on Saturday afternoon. Cheers erupted from the gardens shortly after 4:30 PM AEDT as the couple exchanged vows crafted from the heart. Albanese and Haydon expressed their joy, stating, “We are absolutely delighted to share our love and commitment to spending our future lives together.”
The ceremony included touching moments, such as Haydon’s parents, Bill and Pauline, walking her down the aisle to the evocative tune of Ben Folds‘ “The Luckiest.” Their beloved dog, Toto, served as the ring bearer, led by Haydon’s five-year-old niece, Ella, who acted as the flower girl.
Haydon, an accomplished professional heading strategic partnerships at Teachers Mutual Bank, dazzled in a long-sleeved white gown designed by Sydney’s Romance was Born. Meanwhile, Albanese donned a classic black tuxedo from MJ Bale. The couple had previously hinted at hosting a private ceremony, with no world leaders in attendance.
Among the guests were notable figures such as Treasurer Jim Chalmers and other Labor Party members including Tony Burke, Katy Gallagher, and Penny Wong. Following their vows, the couple celebrated their union with a lively atmosphere, enjoying custom cans of beer from Willie the Boatman, a brewery located in Albanese’s Sydney electorate.
In a heartfelt moment, the couple danced to Frank Sinatra‘s “The Way You Look Tonight,” bringing a touch of glamour to their special day. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley also extended her congratulations via social media, wishing them every happiness as they embark on this new chapter together.
Albanese and Haydon will enjoy a honeymoon in Australia starting Monday, just days after their nuptials. The couple first crossed paths at a business dinner in Melbourne in 2019, bonding over their mutual love for the South Sydney NRL team.
The couple’s journey has seen them sharing significant moments, including recent trips to the White House and a dinner in London hosted by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Albanese’s proposal took place at The Lodge on Valentine’s Day 2024, featuring a custom-designed ring from jeweler Cerrone.
As the couple embarks on their married life, they also recently purchased a stunning clifftop home overlooking Central Coast’s Copacabana Beach for $4.3 million. This wedding marks a significant milestone not only for the couple but for Australian history as well.
Stay tuned for more updates as the newlyweds celebrate their love and commitment to one another.
