The PM faces backlash from disability advocates and political opponents after a hurtful remark made in parliament, prompting calls for greater awareness of Tourette’s syndrome

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has issued a public apology after making a controversial remark regarding Tourette’s syndrome during a parliamentary session, a comment that has drawn significant criticism from disability advocates and members of the political spectrum alike.

The incident occurred during a heated exchange in Parliament when Albanese, addressing interjections from opposition lawmakers, quipped, “Have you got Tourette’s or something? You know, you just sit there, babble, babble, babble.” This flippant remark was made in response to interruptions from frontbenchers, including Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor, while Albanese discussed proposed tax changes.

Following swift backlash, the Prime Minister returned to the chamber late Tuesday to express his regret. “I regret saying it. It was wrong. It was insensitive, and I apologise,” he stated, seeking forgiveness from Australians affected by Tourette’s syndrome.

The comment has been condemned as “ableist” and “despicable” by various MPs, highlighting a growing concern regarding the treatment of disability issues in political discourse. Advocates for the disabled have pointed out the dangers of trivialising such a serious condition, which affects a significant portion of the population.

Mandy Maysey, President of the Tourette Syndrome Association of Australia, articulated the need for increased awareness about the disorder. “For him to just flippantly use it in such an offhanded manner speaks volumes… we have a lot of work to do,” she remarked in an interview with Seven News. Maysey emphasised that when influential figures like the Prime Minister make light of disabilities, it sets a precedent that can lead to similar attitudes in broader society. “If people see Albanese doing that in Parliament, then it will trickle down, and people already use it as a punchline or an insult,” she added.

Criticism of Albanese’s comment extended beyond advocates for the disabled. Australian Greens disability spokesman Jordon Steele-John, who lives with cerebral palsy, expressed his discontent, stating, “Using disability as the butt of his jokes is unacceptable. Casual ableism is still ableism.” His remarks underline the broader call for sensitivity and respect when discussing disabilities in any context, especially in political arenas.

Opposition Health Spokeswoman Anne Ruston also chimed in, calling the taunt “despicable” and demanding an apology to the entire Tourette’s community. Ruston asserted on social media platform X, “Mocking a disability is no laughing matter.” Her comments reflect a unified stance among many political figures advocating for respect and awareness regarding disabilities.

Research indicates that Tourette’s syndrome affects approximately one in every 100 school-aged children in Australia, with an estimated 1-2% of the population living with the disorder in the UK. This genetic neurological condition often leads to involuntary movements or sounds, known as tics, which can have significant social and emotional implications for those affected.

As the Prime Minister faces scrutiny for his comments, the incident has sparked a wider conversation about the treatment of disabilities in political discourse. Many Australians are now calling for greater awareness and education about Tourette’s syndrome and other disabilities, urging leaders to promote understanding rather than derision.

Albanese’s apology marks a crucial step in addressing the issue, but advocates emphasise that there is still much work to be done. The need for sensitivity in political dialogue has never been clearer, and many hope that this incident will catalyse a broader movement toward respectful and informed discussions about disabilities in all areas of public life.

As discussions continue around this topic, the Prime Minister’s experience serves as a reminder of the impact words can have, particularly in the political arena, where they can influence public perceptions and attitudes toward vulnerable communities.