Midwinter Ball 2026: Pollies flock to Canberra for annual fundraising gala

Federal politicians have scrubbed up for the biggest night of the Parliamentary calendar — with Canberra’s annual midwinter ball setting another record for charity. 

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Andrew Greene
The Nightly
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and wife Jodie Haydon arrive for the 2026 Midwinter Ball at Parliament House, in Canberra, Wednesday, July 1, 2026. (AAP Image/Lukas Coch) NO ARCHIVING
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and wife Jodie Haydon arrive for the 2026 Midwinter Ball at Parliament House, in Canberra, Wednesday, July 1, 2026. (AAP Image/Lukas Coch) NO ARCHIVING Credit: LUKAS COCH/AAPIMAGE

Federal politicians have scrubbed up for the biggest night of the Parliamentary calendar — with Canberra’s annual midwinter ball setting another record for charity.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s wife Jodie Haydon wore a Sofia Gown loaned by contemporary Australian designer Leo Lin, as the power couple made their first appearance at the event since they were married in December.

Australian Opposition Leader Angus Taylor and wife Louise Clegg arrive for the 2026 Midwinter Ball.
Australian Opposition Leader Angus Taylor and wife Louise Clegg arrive for the 2026 Midwinter Ball. Credit: LUKAS COCH/AAPIMAGE

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Opposition Leader Angus Taylor was also joined by wife Louise Clegg, while the leader of the increasingly popular One Nation party was again absent from Canberra’s big night, with Pauline Hanson again not to attend.

This year the annual charity ball has raised a record $375,000 for a mix of local and national causes, with one bidder paying $3000 to sauna with Independent Senator and former Wallabies captain David Pocock.

The opportunity to play tennis with the Prime Minister raised $16,500, while another bidder splashed out $5000 to “Wine and Dine” with the Opposition Leader and Deputy Jane Hume.

Since its inception the Midwinter Ball has now raised a total of over $6 million.

Originally published on The Nightly

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