PM denies knowing about 'shag, marry, date' podcast game

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese denied any knowledge of a sexual game play during a podcast, despite claims by comedian Nikki Osborne that both he and his team were aware of it. Albanese repeatedly stated that he had no prior knowledge of the "shag, marry, date" game being played during the Deep Bush podcast episode. Osborne claimed that she, her team, and Albanese's staff were fully aware of the game and his potential questioning about it.

However, Albanese vehemently denied these claims during a press conference. He also denied making hand gestures while referring to melons given by Japan's Prime Minister, and refused to apologize for those gestures, arguing that his body language did not cross his chest. Albanese's defense of the podcast's tone was challenged, as he stated that he is only accountable for his words and none of his words have been criticized.

He also avoided answering questions about the appropriateness of a prime minister appearing on a podcast filled with sexual innuendos. The opposition has called for Albanese to personally apologize to the Japanese Prime Minister, as the podcast contained several sexual and inappropriate remarks. Despite this, Albanese has not held a press conference in Canberra since the incident and has only responded to a single question about the matter at a press conference in Newcastle.