UK prime minister's 'problematic' request to Albanese

It took only a few minutes, but Anthony Albanese managed to get another world leader to join the ranks of South Sydney Rabbitohs supporters.

The prime minister met with his UK counterpart Andy Burnham on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York on Wednesday, Australian time.

It is the first time the pair have met in person since Mr Burnham became British prime minister in July.

The pair had previously bonded in a phone call over their shared love of rugby league, with Mr Albanese being a Rabbitohs tragic and Mr Burnham previously heading up the Rugby Football League in the UK.

Mr Albanese said he had convinced Mr Burnham to back the Rabbitohs, in exchange for him becoming a supporter of the British prime minister's favourite team, the Leigh Leopards.

"Sam Burgess might have something to say about that. He's quite a good friend, it might be problematic," Mr Albanese said, referring to the former Rabbitohs player.

Burgess is the coach of the Warrington Wolves in the British Super League, which compete against the Leopards.

Rugby league diplomacy aside, the two leaders discussed the AUKUS partnership, which will lead to Australia acquiring nuclear submarines.

Mr Burnham also said Australia had been leading the world in banning under 16s from social media.

"We look to you and what you've done, the leadership that you've given on social media," he told reporters.

"We're looking to go on our own path now, but you know, a lot of people look to you for starting this change to get on the front foot to protect our children."

Mr Albanese said there was a lot the two countries shared, alongside a love of rugby league

"Australia and the UK are, of course, great friends. We have history, we have common values," he said.

Mr Burnham said he was hopeful he might be able to meet with Mr Albanese closer to Australia.