'Our nation faces a grave threat': Deputy PM 'quits' in time for Matildas' semi-final

Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles has jokingly resigned as defence minister, handing over the role to Matildas goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold in a tongue-in-cheek announcement before Australia's World Cup semi-final against England.

In a video posted to X, previously Twitter, on Wednesday afternoon, Marles appeared stony faced as he said he had no choice but to relinquish his role.

"Tonight, our nation faces a grave threat, and it comes from the old enemy," the deputy prime minister said.

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"And I realise that I am unable to meet the moment. So it is my solemn duty to announce that this afternoon I'm resigning as Australia's minister for defence. And I am handing my commission to Mackenzie Arnold.

"As Australia expects, I know that in this hour she will do us proud.

"And I simply ask one thing: tomorrow, can you please give me back the keys."

Marles' post did, naturally, clarify that the announcement was a joke and he added that he would quite like his job back in the morning.

Arnold has been in excellent form during the World Cup, including in the Matildas' quarter-final win against France when she was named player of the match.

She kept a clean sheet, produced a crucial save in extra time and then denied three penalties during the deciding shootout, leading to plenty of praise on social media afterwards.

Her efforts helped Australia into its first-ever FIFA World Cup semi-final: a clash against England in Sydney tonight.