'He amplifies voices': Albanese makes Time magazine's 100 most influential list

David Prestipino Published April 14, 2023 at 5.30pm (AWST)

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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has acknowledged Anthony Albanese's work to "amplify" the voices of Indigenous peoples. Image: The Sydney Morning Herald.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been named one of Time's 100 most influential people of 2023, being lauded by Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau for his work to amplify voices that need to be heard from, particularly First Nations people.

Mr Albanese becomes the third Australian leader to be named on the list, after John Howard in 2005 and Kevin Rudd in 2008.

The Prime Minister was elected to office in May 2022, ending the Liberal Party's nine consecutive years in government, and his work since was summed up in a glowing endorsement from Mr Trudeau for his feature in the Time 100.

"Progressives around the world are united in the idea that we should leave no one behind," Mr Trudeau wrote of Mr Albanese.

"The idea that no matter who you are or where you come from, you should have every chance to succeed in life.

"Few politicians embody that journey as Anthony Albanese does. From growing up in public housing to taking office last spring as Australia's new Prime Minister, he is a symbol of hope and inspiration.

"He works to lift up and amplify the voices of those who need to be heard from, particularly Indigenous peoples.

Mr Trudeau said the Albanese Government supports those who need it most, is pro-active on climate action and unwaveringly supports democracy in the face of unprecedented threats.

"In a world where people are increasingly uncertain about what the future holds for them and their families, it's easy for politicians to sow fear and division," Mr Trudeau wrote.

"To choose the path of hope and opportunity takes immense courage, and that courage lives within Anthony Albanese."

Time compiles its annual list of people it believes are the most influential across six categories: artists, icons, pioneers, leaders, titans and innovators.

Mr Albanese was listed in the leaders section of the top 100 alongside fellow leaders US President Joe Biden, Ukrainian first lady Olena Zelenska, Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and US senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell.

Twitter owner Elon Musk, King Charles III, Beyonce, soccer legend Lionel Messi, and author Judy Blume also made the list.