Overview

• Hosted by the parliamentary press gallery, the black‑tie gala returned to the Great Hall after being pushed back from June because of the May federal election.
• Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Jodie Haydon headlined the arrivals as the event adopted a House of Cards theme and tapped The Betoota Advocate duo as MCs.
• Sentiment Agency, founded by musician and former staffer Holly Rankin, curated a cultural table featuring Kate Ceberano, Tony Armstrong, Rona Glynn-McDonald and Dylan Alcott.
• Fashion doubled as commentary, with Greens leader Larissa Waters wearing Palestinian‑flag earrings and an 'Always Was' message, while many guests highlighted Australian and sustainable designers.
• The Department of Parliamentary Services’ tightened smoking policy was signed off by Senate President Sue Lines and Speaker Milton Dick, though reports said enforcement lagged in the lead‑up.