Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has issued a public apology after making a remark during a heated exchange in Parliament that has drawn widespread criticism for being ableist.
The incident occurred during question time, where Albanese responded to persistent interjections from Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor by saying, “Have you got Tourette’s or something?”
Although the Prime Minister swiftly withdrew the comment and apologised at the time, the backlash continued throughout the day.
Later that evening, Albanese returned to a nearly empty House of Representatives to extend a more formal apology, this time directed specifically at Australians living with Tourette syndrome.
Albanese acknowledged the hurtful nature of his comment, describing it as “unkind and hurtful.” He expressed deep regret for the remark, stating, “I knew it was wrong as soon as I made the comment, I apologised and I withdrew as soon as I said it, but it shouldn’t have happened.”
He further added, “And I also want to apologise to all Australians who suffer from this disability. I regret saying it; it was wrong, it was insensitive, and I apologise.”
Tourette syndrome is a neurological condition characterised by involuntary tics and repetitive vocalisations, often misunderstood by the general public. The social stigma attached to the disorder can be particularly distressing, as individuals with Tourette’s may struggle with societal perceptions and judgments about their involuntary actions.
The syndrome typically affects children and young adults and is sometimes associated with learning difficulties, sleeping problems, and low self-esteem.
The Prime Minister’s comment was met with strong disapproval from political figures and disability advocates alike. Opposition Health spokeswoman Anne Ruston called for a public apology on behalf of the entire Tourette’s community, criticising Albanese for showing disrespect.
“Mocking a disability is no laughing matter,” she wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “This is absolutely despicable behaviour from Anthony Albanese.”
Greens Senator Jordan Steele-John, who himself uses a wheelchair, also voiced his disappointment, calling for greater sensitivity from the Prime Minister. “If our PM could stop using disability as the butt of his jokes that would be great,” he posted on X. “Casual ableism is still ableism.”
The comment occurred during a discussion on housing policy, with Albanese becoming frustrated by interjections from the opposition. His remark, “This nonsense that they carry on with the idea that we’re – have you got Tourette’s or something? You just sit there, babble, babble, babble,” was quickly retracted, but the damage had already been done.
Despite his immediate withdrawal and apology, critics have emphasised that the harm caused by such remarks lingers long after they are made.
