Australian PM Faces Backlash Over Melon Comment Directed at Japanese PM

Sun Sep 06 2026 08:30:27 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Australian PM Anthony Albanese sparks controversy with comments on Japanese PM's melon gift, prompting calls for apology.

Anthony Albanese has been criticised for comments about two crown melons presented by Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi. The remarks, made on the Bush Deep podcast, were described by some as sexist and insulting. Opposition leaders are demanding an apology, while the PM insists it was a joke from the host. The incident echoes earlier controversies involving Albanese’s remarks about pop star Kylie Minogue.

Background

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is under fire after remarks he made on a podcast about two crown melons gifted to him by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. The gifts, given during Takaichi's May visit, are among the most expensive fruit in Japan, each costing more than 30,000 yen.

Podcast Incident

During the July episode of the Bush Deep podcast, Albanese described the melons as "pretty strange" but added they were "quite good". The host, comedian Nikki Osborne, joked that Takaichi “just came in looking like Pamela Anderson”. Albanese denied any inappropriate intent, claiming the humor was originating from the host.

Reactions

Opposition leaders and a former Japanese ambassador, Shingo Yamagami, labelled Andrew's remarks a sexist joke that hurt the Japan‑Australia relationship. The Australian Labor Party's finance and social services ministers have defended the PM, stating the comments were misinterpreted. Meanwhile, an opposition MP demanded an apology, which the PM rejected.

Prior Controversy

The melon gaffe follows earlier controversy when Albanese made comments about pop star Kylie Minogue on the same podcast, prompting a public apology for 'foul-mouthed' remarks. The incident may influence diplomatic relations and domestic politics.

Japanese prime minister Sanae Takaichi and Australian PM Anthony Albanese during a visit in May — Japanese prime minister Sanae Takaichi presented Albanese with two royal melons during her May visit to Australia.

The controversy sheds light on how informal interactions can affect international relations, as politicians must navigate cultural sensitivities while engaging with allies.