NSW Premier Chris Minns has revealed what day of the week on which a public holiday could be held if the Matildas claim the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 title.
Speaking on the Kyle and Jackie O show on Tuesday morning, Minns, who has committed to pursuing a public holiday in NSW should the women’s team take home the cup, said a Monday off could be on the cards.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Peter Dutton opposes Matildas public holiday while pledging more sport funding.
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“We would have a massive ticker tape parade, and we would have a holiday,” he said.
“A Monday would be the best day to do it because then you get the triple header.”
However, he said it wouldn’t be the day after the Women’s World Cup final, which takes place this Sunday night.
“We need seven days to declare a public holiday, so it wouldn’t be the day after the win,” he said.
The Matildas made Australian sporting history on Saturday night by defeating France in the World Cup quarter-finals.
They will now face England on Wednesday night in the semi-finals.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has flagged the possibility of a national day off in recognition of the victory.
He brushed off concerns about the impact a snap public holiday could have, particularly on small business and scheduled hospital operations.
“The world doesn’t stop on a public holiday,” he said on Monday.
“Regardless of what happens, what we need to do is to have a proper celebration for the Matildas and their achievements,” he said.
“It has been extraordinary the way that they’ve carried themselves not just on the field during a game but afterwards as well.”
The prime minister will discuss the matter with state and territory leaders when they meet for national cabinet in Brisbane on Wednesday.
Victoria was unwilling to back the prime minister’s push for a national holiday before Wednesday night.
“Let’s cross that bridge first,” Victorian Sports Minister Steve Dimopoulos told reporters.
Nationals Leader David Littleproud declared himself “captain killjoy” and rejected the idea of a holiday because of the economic cost.
“It’s all well and good for premiers and the prime minister to promise public holidays but, ultimately, someone foots the bill and that in this case is small business,” he said.
On Tuesday, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton also slammed a proposed public holiday, instead announcing a multi-million dollar boost to sports infrastructure if the Coalition wins the next election.
He said the $250 million in funding would “capitalise on the national attention female sports are receiving” and boost female participation in sport.
Dutton said a proposed public holiday was an “ego trip” for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
The opposition leader said a snap holiday would potentially cost the economy $2 billion and would have no “legacy impact”.
“We are committed to this proposal whether the Matildas win or lose the World Cup and we will be proud of them whether they win or fall short,” he said.
– With AAP
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