After the Matildas defeated France in an epic penalty-shootout on Wednesday, discussions have continued around a proposed public holiday if they win the World Cup.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese first suggested the possibility of a public holiday in June and has thrown his support behind it as the Matildas continue their push towards the final.
However, the final decision will be left to state leaders.
Mr Albanese said the success of the Tillies was “much more than just a sporting event” and encouraged state leaders to side with him and adopt the idea.
“I know that it’s received a pretty warm reception in most quarters,” he said on Monday morning.
“The idea twenty years ago that packed stadiums [would watch] women’s team sport around the country is something that could not have been anticipated.”
The idea of a proposed public holiday will be raised at Wednesday’s national cabinet meeting before the Matildas take on England at 8pm that night.
“So certainly, I’ll be raising with all the premiers and chief ministers, seeking their views on the potential to have a day off,” Albanese said.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns is strongly in favour of the public holiday and even mentioned the possibility of a “ticker-tape parade”.
“If the Matildas win the semi-final and then win the World Cup final, then yes we will pursue a public holiday in NSW,” he said.
“Not just to celebrate the victory but also to have a massive civic celebration and allow the Matildas to celebrate with the people of Sydney what will be an amazing, like, life-changing and unbelievable event in the state’s history.”
The Matildas will take on England in the semi-final Wednesday night in Sydney with the match set to start at 8pm.
Stadiums around the country are being opened to accommodate the thousands of fans who want to watch the game. Rod Laver Arena hosted 12,000 fans on Saturday and AAMI Park will be opened for Wednesday night’s clash.
Photo:
White Adidas Soccer Ball on Grass by Pixabay available HERE and used under a Creative Commons license. This image has not been modified.
