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🇦🇺 Australia /Culture & Society

Six times Australian politicians proved politics isn't always serious business

From ABC Australia · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Context piece
  • Australian politics is often serious, but a collective commitment to not taking it too seriously helps maintain democracy.
  • The TV program Insiders marks 25 years by highlighting six memorable moments where politicians didn't take themselves too seriously.
  • These moments range from a prime minister falling on a child to a politician's unusual crocodile anecdote and a verbal gaffe.

Politics, while a serious business, is often punctuated by moments that remind us not to take it too seriously. As Australian television program Insiders celebrates 25 years on air, it looks back at six instances where politicians provided memorable, lighter moments.

Crash or crash through

Describing Scott Morrison's approach during an election campaign.

These recollections include former Prime Minister Scott Morrison's unfortunate tumble onto a child during a 2022 election campaign stop, a moment that became a viral sensation and reinforced the idea that politicians should perhaps avoid showcasing athletic prowess. The program also revisits Bob Katter's 2017 anecdote about a 'thousand blossoms' blooming, which took a bizarre turn towards a crocodile encounter, showcasing Katter's unique way of connecting with his constituents.

A thousand blossoms bloom

Describing Bob Katter's unusual anecdote.

Another highlight is Tony Abbott's 2013 malapropism, where he referred to a place as 'the suppository of all wisdom' instead of the intended 'repository.' These moments, while perhaps embarrassing for the individuals involved, are presented as vital to the health of Australian democracy, offering a necessary dose of humor and perspective amidst the high stakes of political life.

The suppository of all wisdom

Describing Tony Abbott's famous malapropism.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ABC Australia in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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