Tim Mathieson's son joins Prime Minister Julia Gillard's official party in Cambodia

Julia Gillard and partner Tim Mathieson depart Canberra for Phnom Penh. Picture: Ray Strange Source: The Daily Telegraph

 

JUST a day after Prime Minister Julia Gillard's partner Tim Mathieson had to defend himself against accusations he was a "sponger" for receiving privileges as the Prime Minister's spouse, it has emerged that his son has joined the first couple in the Cambodian capital. 

Kane Mathieson, however, is in the South East Asian country on a self-funded holiday.

The Prime Minister's office has confirmed the 32-year-old caught up with his father and accompanied the official party to pay tribute to the late King Norodom Sihanouk.

But it was made clear that the Australian taxpayer is in no way out of pocket for any of Kane's expenses and that he has not travelled on the PM's plane.

News of the family reunion came as Tim  Mathieson appeared as the odd man out at a lavish gala dinner for world leaders last night.

Renewing their uncommonly close personal relationship, newly re-elected US President Barack Obama and Ms Gillard laughed and shared wine together.

While it is not clear what they spoke about, it seems unlikely from their warm demeanour that trade talks were high on the agenda.

Far more likely was their mutual distaste for their conservative opponents domestically and perhaps a bit of useful advice on how to defeat them at an election.

Mr Mathieson was earlier yesterday the subject of questions about his financial status by Sydney broadcaster Ray Hadley.

The DJ asked Ms Gillard's office if Mr Mathieson received an allowance or financial support, a driver or accommodation.

Ms Gillard's office said the First Bloke was not paid for his work with his three chosen charities, but does receive some taxpayer support while he undertakes duties and has been given gifts over the past two-and-a half  years since Ms Gillard became Prime Minister.

He is treated the same as every other spouse of a prime minister, Ms Gillard's office added.

A spokeswoman said it had been a long-standing practice, under successive governments, for the spouse of the prime minister to receive support for their official duties.