Prime Minister Julia Gillard says she's disappointed a calendar clash will prevent her from attending an Olympic Games fundraising dinner, but she has defended her decision not to attend the London Games.
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Australian Olympic Committee president John Coates has criticised Ms Gillard's decision not to attend the London Games in July.
''I thought London would be an absolute must for Julia, so I'm disappointed,'' he said.
A spokesman for Ms Gillard said prime ministers rarely attend the Olympics and Sports Minister Kate Lundy would attend instead.
Mr Coates is also said to be annoyed Ms Gillard will not attend the AOC's June 23 fundraising event in Melbourne because she will be at the G20 leaders meeting at the time.
Historically, the prime minister of the day makes the keynote address at the $22,000-a-table dinner.
Deputy Prime Minister Wayne Swan will represent Ms Gillard at the dinner. AAP
