Ministers Defend PM's 'Melon' Remark as AFP Probes Leak of Japanese Memo

Australian Federal Police have been requested to trace

Australian Federal Police have been requested to trace the source of a confidential Japanese diplomatic memo that found its way into local media, revealing details of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's controversial 'melon' gesture. The development comes as senior Labor figures push back against persistent inquiries regarding whether the PM's actions were inappropriate.

Cabinet ministers rallied behind Albanese on Monday, dismissing the controversy as a distraction from substantive policy issues. They argued that the opposition's focus on the gesture was a political stunt, aimed at undermining public confidence in the government ahead of the upcoming budget.

The memo, reportedly drafted by Japanese embassy officials, described the prime minister's hand gesture during a recent bilateral meeting, which some interpreted as a crude reference. The leak has sparked a security review, with officials concerned about the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive diplomatic communications.

In response to questions from the media, a

In response to questions from the media, a government spokesperson emphasized that the PM's conduct was in line with standard diplomatic practice and that the interpretation of the gesture was a matter of cultural misunderstanding. The spokesperson added that the AFP's involvement would ensure accountability for the leak, without compromising international relations.

Meanwhile, opposition leaders have called for a full explanation from the PM, insisting that the public deserves clarity on the incident. However, Labor MPs have urged their colleagues to shift focus back to policy discussions, including cost-of-living measures and economic reform.

As the AFP investigation unfolds, political analysts note that the episode could either fade quickly or escalate depending on the findings. For now, the government appears determined to weather the storm, with ministers uniformly projecting confidence in the PM's judgment and the integrity of the diplomatic process.