Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has apologised after describing former Australian of the Year Grace Tame as “difficult”, a remark that triggered criticism from the survivor and political leaders.
Albanese made the comment during a rapid response, one word question session, when asked to describe Tame, who was named Australian of the Year in 2021 for her advocacy for survivors of child sexual abuse.
Tame said the term reflected what she called a “misogynist’s code” often used for women who refuse to comply, adding that history usually labels such women as courageous.
Following criticism, Albanese said he was sorry if his words were misinterpreted, explaining that he had been referring to the hardships Tame has faced in her life and praising her for turning personal trauma into advocacy for others.
However, Tame later rejected the apology, posting on social media that it was condescending and insisting the meaning of the remark was clear.
The comment also drew condemnation from other politicians. Greens leader Larissa Waters said describing Tame as difficult was completely unwarranted and criticised the tendency to label outspoken women in that way.
During the same session, Albanese described Donald Trump as “president”, opposition coalition leader Angus Taylor as “leader”, and One Nation chief Pauline Hanson as “divisive”. He also used a derogatory term when referring to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, drawing applause from the audience.
Tame was awarded Australian of the Year for her campaign to overturn laws in Tasmania that prevented survivors of sexual abuse from speaking publicly about their experiences. In recent years, she has been a prominent critic of political leaders over responses to sexual assault allegations and workplace culture in parliament.
More recently, Tame has again drawn public attention after speaking at a pro-Palestine rally, where her remarks sparked debate and criticism from some politicians, including calls from figures such as Barnaby Joyce for her to be stripped of her national honour.
The controversy has renewed debate in Australia over political language, gender, and how public figures respond to survivors who challenge those in power.
With inputs from BBC