Australian Prime Minister Makes History At 62 As He Weds Partner

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has become the first sitting leader in the nation’s history to marry while in office, tying the knot with his longtime partner, Jodie Haydon, in a private ceremony at The Lodge in Canberra. The intimate event, held on Saturday in the residence’s gardens, was kept secret until the final moments due to security concerns.

The 62-year-old leader, celebrating a recent political victory, shared the news publicly with a simple social media post reading “Married,” accompanied by photos and video of the couple celebrating amidst confetti. The ceremony included personal touches: Haydon walked down the aisle to Ben Folds’ “The Luckiest,” and the couple exchanged vows they had written themselves. Haydon’s five-year-old niece served as flower girl, while Albanese’s dog Toto acted as ring bearer. Witnesses included Haydon’s brother Patrick and Albanese’s cousin Helen Golden.

The bride wore a long white dress by Sydney fashion house Romance Was Born, and Albanese was in a suit from MJ Bale. Wedding bands were sourced from Cerrone Jewellers in Sydney. The reception featured local Australian craft beers and an intimate guest list, including senior cabinet members and actor Rhys Muldoon. All expenses were privately covered by the couple.

Albanese and Haydon met at a Melbourne business dinner in 2020, and their relationship strengthened over the years, with Haydon joining him on election campaigns and major international events. The engagement took place on Valentine’s Day 2024 at The Lodge, following a romantic dinner. Albanese has an adult son, Nathan, from his previous marriage, who attended the ceremony.

The wedding was timed around the political calendar, following Albanese’s decisive re-election in May 2025. The couple plans a short honeymoon in Australia this week, with long-term plans including a home on the Central Coast, Haydon’s hometown. The event marked a historic personal milestone, blending love and leadership, celebrated by family, friends, and the public.