In a historic moment for Australian politics, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has tied the knot with his partner Jodie Haydon, marking the first time a sitting Australian leader has married while holding office.
A Private Ceremony in the Capital
The couple exchanged vows in Canberra on Saturday afternoon, choosing the day after the final parliamentary sitting of the year for their special occasion. The wedding took place at the Prime Minister's official residence, The Lodge, which also served as the location for their engagement on Valentine's Day last year.
Anthony Albanese expressed their joy in a brief statement, saying: "We are absolutely delighted to share our love and commitment to spending our future lives together, in front of our family and closest friends."
Intimate Gathering with Special Touches
The wedding maintained an intimate atmosphere with only close family and friends in attendance. Among the guests were Jodie Haydon's parents and Albanese's son, Nathan, from his previous marriage.
The ceremony featured several personal touches that made the day uniquely theirs. The couple's dog, Toto, played the important role of ring bearer during the proceedings. As the newlyweds walked back down the aisle, they chose the classic Stevie Wonder song "Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours)" as their exit music.
Security Concerns and Secrecy
Wedding plans had been kept strictly confidential in the weeks leading up to the ceremony. Security concerns and potential disruptions prompted the couple to maintain complete secrecy about their arrangements until the actual day of the wedding.
The careful planning ensured that the Prime Minister's historic wedding could proceed smoothly without any interruptions, allowing the couple to focus on their special moment together.
This marriage marks a significant personal milestone for Anthony Albanese while simultaneously creating political history as the first Australian Prime Minister to marry during their term in office.