Melbourne Legend Garry Lyon Issues Apology for On-Air Blunder Calling Tanya Plibersek ‘Minister for Nonsense’

Melbourne icon Garry Lyon has expressed his apologies after inadvertently referring to Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek as the minister for “nonsense” during a hot mic incident on Wednesday.

Lyon was engaged in a conversation with Fox Footy AFL 360 co-host Gerard Whateley and former Sydney coach John Longmire during an advertisement break, when behind-the-scenes footage was unintentionally uploaded to a third-party platform.

In this informal chat, Longmire noted that he had recently met with Governor-General Sam Mostyn, along with players, coaches, and officials from the Swans.

A photo featuring Mostyn and Plibersek was displayed on screen, prompting Whateley to lightheartedly inquire about the minister’s current role.

“Nonsense,” Lyon jokingly replied.

“Don’t say that,” Longmire chuckled in response.

The duo shared a laugh before shifting their focus back to the upcoming segment, with Longmire and former West Coast coach Adam Simpson also in attendance.

Whateley and Simpson began discussing Carlton and upcoming player mistakes they planned to highlight, when Lyon interjected after searching online for Plibersek’s actual title: Social Services Minister.

“In my opinion, my comment was more precise,” Lyon jokingly added.

Crikey, which initially reported the story, received a statement from Fox Footy and Lyon following the incident, apologising for the remarks.

“FOXTEL sincerely apologises for a comment made regarding Federal Minister Tanya Plibersek last night,” Fox Sports managing director Steve Crawley stated.

“The off-air comment was made by Garry Lyon during an ad-break on AFL 360, and although it did not broadcast live, it was mistakenly included in the uploaded program later that evening.

“This comment made during the break does not represent our values and standards and was disrespectful to the Minister and the significant work she and all politicians undertake in our community.”

“We’ve apologised to the Minister this morning and have reminded our presenters about the importance of maintaining respect and professionalism at all times, both on and off camera.”

Lyon also conveyed his own apology: “I extend my sincere apologies to Minister Plibersek. While my comment was intended as a joke, it was undeniably disrespectful, and I’m sorry for any offence and embarrassment it caused.”

The former Melbourne captain has been co-hosting AFL 360 since the start of 2025, stepping in after the departure of long-standing host Mark Robinson.

Lyon is also slated to play a pivotal role in the return of the AFL State of Origin scheduled for 2026, where he will serve as Victoria’s chief selector.