Anthony Albanese has talked it up, but Nationals leader David Littleproud is pouring cold water on suggestions of a national public holiday should the Matildas win the World Cup.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
Australia booked its spot in the semi-finals after a nail-biting penalty shootout with France, setting up a showdown with England on Wednesday.
Should the hosts prevail and advance to the final and win, Mr Albanese has flagged the possibility of the country's workers enjoying a day off in recognition of the victory.
The prime minister is set to speak about the proposal with state and territory leaders at national cabinet on Wednesday.
Mr Littleproud warned of a possible economic hit should the holiday go ahead.
"I don't want to be captain killjoy on this, but look, I think business has a point here," he told ABC's Insiders program on Sunday.
"It's easy to call for a national holiday when someone else is paying for it."
Business groups had spoken out about the increased cost to small business if the holiday was announced.
"I'm proud of the Matildas, I think every Australian is, and we're going to be riding it home on Wednesday night," Mr Littleproud said.
"We can celebrate our wins but we've got to get on and pay the bills and make sure that the country keeps going."
The prime minister on Saturday said similar concerns were raised last year, when a national day of mourning was declared following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
"Some said that that was something that would cause economic disruption. What that did, of course, was lead to increased economic activity in a whole lot of businesses, particularly small businesses," Mr Albanese said.
"It actually benefited a whole range of those businesses."
The prime minister said the final decision would be made by premiers and chief ministers.
NSW Premier Chris Minns had already thrown his support behind the proposal.
Mr Littleproud isn't alone in his opposition to the idea.
Former Matildas goalie Melissa Barbieri believes there are more worthwhile ways to appreciate the home side's achievements, such as properly funding women's soccer.
The four-time World Cup veteran posted on social media platform X, formerly Twitter: "35 weeks to play ALeague for a minimum $25k for a female which most are on is not ok".
"Coaches on min (wage) .. worse if you're female... worse if you need food or petrol."
Wednesday's match will be the Matildas first World Cup semi-final, having failed to progress past the quarter-finals at previous tournaments.
Australian Associated Press
