Live: Teal MP urges Albanese to 'pick up phone' and apologise for melon gaffe

Anthony Albanese, the Prime Minister of Australia, finds himself facing calls for him to personally apologize to his Japanese counterpart, Sanae Takaichi, following a controversial gesture he made when receiving melons gifted by Takaichi. The incident came to light during a radio interview with ABC's Radio National Breakfast.

Meanwhile, in South Australia, Premier Peter Malinauskas has announced a state royal commission into artificial intelligence (AI). The premier explained that the commission was initiated after discussions with tech representatives in the United States. Malinauskas emphasized the importance of establishing an equitable policy architecture to address the challenges and opportunities presented by AI.

Katy Gallagher, the Minister for Women, has been asked to comment on the Prime Minister's melon gesture. In response, Gallagher stated that the remarks were not intended to be interpreted as the political opponents and some media outlets are reporting. She acknowledged that the gesture was misinterpreted and that the Prime Minister never intended for it to be perceived that way. Gallagher expressed that she would listen to others' opinions on the matter.

It remains to be seen whether the Prime Minister will address the melon incident directly. A statement from the Prime Minister's office, reported by The Australian, rejected the interpretation of the gesture as insulting or ignorant. However, no official apology has been issued by the Prime Minister at this time.