Canberra’s ‘Night of Nights’: Midwinter Ball 2026
Politicians from across parliament, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Angus Taylor, as well as heads of corporate Australia, attended the annual Midwinter Ball hosted by the federal parliamentary press gallery on 1 July 2026. The event, held at Parliament House in Canberra, is the fanciest night on the capital’s political calendar.
Arrivals and Highlights
Shadow Communications Minister Melissa McIntosh arrived with her sons Byron and Coby. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was accompanied by his wife Jodie Haydon. Treasurer Jim Chalmers and his wife Laura attended alongside Health Minister Mark Butler and his wife Daniela Ritorto.
Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek came with her husband Michael Coutts-Trotter. Labor MP for Macnamara Josh Burns and his wife Georgie Purcell were also present. Opposition Leader Angus Taylor arrived with his wife Louise Clegg.
Independent and Coalition Presence
Independent MPs Allegra Spender, Kate Chaney, Monique Ryan, Sophie Scamps, Nicolette Boele, and Zali Steggall were photographed together. Deputy Leader of the Liberals Jane Hume, Shadow Health Minister Anne Ruston, and Liberal MP for Moncrieff Angie Bell represented the Coalition.
ABC Chair Kim Williams and Lisa Caffery attended, as did Seven News political editor Mark Riley with his wife Suzanne Mostyn.
Senators and Ministers
Labor Senators Sue Lines, Jenny McAllister, Jana Stewart, Ellie Whiteaker, Nita Green, Dorinda Cox, and Charlotte Walker posed together. Attorney General Michelle Rowland arrived with her husband Michael Chaaya. Finance Minister Katy Gallagher brought her daughter Evie. Small Business Minister Anne Aly also attended.
The event was captured by photographers Lukas Coch and Mick Tsikas, providing a glimpse into the glamour and networking of Australia’s political elite.
