Tony Abbott
Australia's Prime Minister Tony Abbott (L) talks to a guest during a lunch meeting in Shanghai April 11, 2014. REUTERS/Carlos Barria

The conservative outlook in life of Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott once more got the better over the Liberal leader as he indicated unwillingness to join the YouTube trend of being doused with a bucket of ice-cold water.

Mr Abbott, known for his refusal to entertain the idea of same-sex marriage for Australians, however, said he is willing to support the cause behind the icy dunk in other ways that getting wet. Under the rules of the trending Ice Bucket Challenge, those who were dared but are not willing to be dumped with cold water would donate to the ALC Foundation in the US.

"I've got to say that I'd probably rather make a modest financial contribution than subject myself to a shower of ice, but it is a great cause and I'm happy to be helpful," the PM said in response to the challenge made by MP for Kooyong Josh Frydenberg, quoted by The Australian.

While Mr Abbott preferred to be dry, Western Australia Premier Colin Barnett gamely accepted the challenge. He would even beat other people to the draw who the premiere believes want to douse him for other reasons. "Just another humiliating day for me," Barnett said.

"If people contribute, that makes it worthwhile," said Barnett, who is scheduled to get his baptism of ice on Friday.

Besides Barnett, other prominent Aussies who agreed to the Ice Bucket Challenge are South Australia Treasurer Tom Koutsantonis and Frydenberg who challenged Mr Abbott.

YouTube/ABC News 24