Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles has taken his support for the Matildas to the next level, offering to temporarily relinquish his defence responsibilities.
"Since Saturday night I have been inundated with texts and emails, there have been calls from the media," Mr Marles said in a video message. "Tonight our country faces a grave threat and it comes from the old enemy and I know that I am unable to meet the moment.
"So this afternoon, it is my solemn duty to resign as Australia's Minister for Defence and I've handed my commission to Mackenzie Arnold. Mackenzie Arnold was player of the match in Australia's quarter-final win against France. Picture: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images "As Australia expects, I know that in his hour she will do us proud. I simply ask one thing, that tomorrow morning can you please give me back the keys. Go Matildas."The Matildas and the Lionesses will play in front of 75,000 fans in what is Australia's first semi-final appearance at a FIFA World Cup.
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