Rudd sworn in as Australia's 26th PM

Melbourne, Dec.3: Labour party leader Kevin Ruddwas today officiallysworn in as Australia's 26th Prime Minister, nine days after defeating the John Howard-led coalition in polls.

Rudd took the oath of office before Governor-General Michael Jeffrey at a brief ceremony in Canberra, while his deputy Julia Gillard, swore an affirmation.

According to The Australian, the ceremony was attended by Rudd's wife Therese Rein, and his children. Gillard's partner, Tim Mathieson and her sister Alison looked on.

The swearing-in of the two leaders is to be followed by the swearing in of the rest of the ministry.

After his oath-taking ceremony, Rudd chaired a full ministry meeting.The new Prime Minister wants to get preparation under way in the key areas of industrial relations and education before Christmas.Interim legislation on industrial relations will be introduced as soon as the new Parliament commences in early February.

Later this week, the cabinet will meet in Rudd's home town of Brisbane.

ANI>