Anthony Albanese calls Tanya Plibersek ‘good mate’ after awkward campaign launch moment caught on camera

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek have downplayed an awkward moment caught on camera on Sunday.

Ms Plibersek leaned in for a hug only to receive a handshake from Mr Albanese at Labor’s campaign launch in Perth.

Mr Albanese has insisted that Tanya is “a good mate”, while speaking at a press conference in Adelaide on Monday.

The Prime Minister was asked about that awkward moment and whether Ms Plibersek will remain in her portfolio if Labor is re-elected.

“I’ll comit to trying to win this election. I don’t assume,” he said.

“Tanya Plibersek has been a friend of mine for a long period of time. We live in neighbouring seats, we’re good mates and she’s doing a fantastic job.”

Ms Plibersek was also asked about the encounter, by Sunrise host Nat Barr on Monday.

“The cameras at Labor’s launch caught an awkward moment between you and the Prime Minister and it looks like you’re going in for the hug. Here we go. Going in, but he’s kind of just grabbed your hands and done the double shake,” Barr said.

“Was that a bit awks? What happened?”

“I reckon we should still all be elbow-bumping. During an election campaign, the last thing you want is to catch a cold from someone,” Ms Plibersek replied.

“So that’s on me. I should’ve done the elbow-bump, I reckon.”

“You two still getting along?,” Barr fired back.

Plibersek: “Yeah, of course! Oh yes!,”

Barr: “Friends, buddies? Just checking.”

Plibersek: “We’re buddies!

Barr: “That’s a yes, is it, Tania? ... She left me hanging”

Both Labor figures maintain there’s no tension between them as the election campaign heats up.