Australian PM Albanese apologises after calling child sex abuse survivor 'difficult'

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese apologised after he described Grace Tame as "difficult" during a rapid-fire questioning round, saying he meant to refer to the hard life she has endured. Ms Tame and several public figures criticised the remark, and the story has drawn wider attention to her advocacy and the legal status of her former teacher.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese apologised after describing Grace Tame as "difficult" in a one-word response during a rapid-fire questioning round at the Future Victoria conference. He said he had meant to refer to the very difficult life Ms Tame has endured and apologised for any misinterpretation. Ms Tame, a 2021 Australian of the Year known for advocacy on behalf of survivors, responded critically on social media and other public figures also voiced objections. The matter has been discussed in the context of recent events and remarks by Ms Tame. Key developments: - Mr Albanese said he used the word "difficult" as a reference to the hardships Ms Tame has faced and offered an apology for any misinterpretation. - Grace Tame publicly criticised the apology as patronising, and several politicians expressed disagreement with the prime minister's wording. - Ms Tame was named Australian of the Year in 2021 for her advocacy; her former teacher was previously convicted and was this week reported as being deemed unfit to stand trial on separate charges. Summary: The prime minister's remark and subsequent apology have prompted public criticism and renewed attention to Grace Tame's role as a survivor and advocate. Undetermined at this time.