Anthony Albanese invites new Pope Leo XIV to Australian gathering

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has invited the new pope, Leo XIV, to visit Australia and lauded his election as a momentous day for Catholics around the world.

“As the first North American pope, Pope Leo XIV’s leadership comes at an important time for the Catholic Church and for the world,” the Prime Minister said.

“This is a moment which will bring joy and hope to Catholics everywhere.

“May the papacy of Pope Leo advance the cause of peace and social justice for all humanity.”

Australia will host the International Eucharistic Congress in 2028 and Mr Albanese said he would formally invite the pontiff to visit for that gathering.

“I’ve had discussions with Archbishop Anthony Fisher of Sydney, who, of course, I know very well, about the importance of Australia hosting that very significant event in just a few years time,” he said.

“And I know that the church here in Australia is very excited to have this privilege and honour.”

Mr Albanese also thanked Australia’s ambassador to the Vatican, former Nationals MP Keith Pitt, who is so new to the role he hasn’t yet formally presented his credentials.