A significant number of Australia’s politicians have collectively claimed approximately $1.5 million in taxpayer-funded allowances since the 2022 election for accommodation in their second homes in Canberra. The travel allowance, which is designed to cover costs for members of parliament (MPs) when they travel to the capital for official duties, has come under scrutiny as a result of recent revelations regarding its use.
Among the highest claimants is the opposition’s leader in the Senate, Michaelia Cash, who has received $123,978 over the past 40 months, averaging more than $3,000 monthly. This figure makes her the most frequent claimant of the $322 daily allowance, surpassing other frontbench colleagues who also own properties in Canberra. Following her is Bridget McKenzie, leader of the Nationals in the Senate, with claims totaling $103,939 over a similar period.
The Independent Parliamentary Expenses Authority reported these figures, revealing that the allowance has escaped proposed changes from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, even after public scrutiny of politicians’ travel benefits. As parliament reconvenes following significant events, including the Bondi Beach massacre, MPs will continue to access this allowance.
McKenzie defended her claims, stating, “The [allowance] rate for members of parliament and staff in Canberra is a set figure irrespective of whether they stay in a garage, the Hyatt or an apartment. My claims comply with the rules.”
The examination of travel expenses also highlighted the spending patterns of other high-profile politicians. For instance, Treasurer Jim Chalmers has claimed $100,095, while Trade Minister Don Farrell has faced criticism for spending more than any other Labor member on family travel, amounting to $116,000 since 2022.
The analysis extended to 20 frontbenchers in both the government and opposition, revealing that the total claims amount to $1,508,911 from May 2022 to September 2023. Notably, about a quarter of the 226 federal MPs own homes in Canberra, allowing them to claim the allowance, which is intended to cover accommodation, meals, and incidental expenses for stays outside their home base.
Despite the allowance being designed to assist with accommodation costs, there are no requirements for MPs to provide receipts, raising concerns regarding transparency. The rules stipulate that if MPs stay with family or friends, they can only claim half the allowance, but this restriction does not apply to stays in Canberra.
Calls for reform have emerged from various quarters. David Pocock, an independent MP who does not own a property in Canberra, has advocated for a thorough inquiry into the travel entitlements system, arguing that the current rules are inadequate. He stated, “I think people would be pretty shocked to know that $1.5 million figure… It doesn’t make sense to me that you can claim $300 a night to sleep in your own apartment or house in Canberra.”
Prime Minister Albanese has indicated possible changes to family travel rules, particularly after controversies surrounding Anika Wells and other MPs. He has urged the Remuneration Tribunal to consider limiting taxpayer-funded family travel to economy class and restricting travel to either Canberra or their electorates.
In response to these discussions, the opposition’s shadow special minister of state, James McGrath, critiqued the proposed reforms as insufficient, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive investigation into the conduct of ministers using these allowances.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the debate surrounding MPs’ travel allowances is likely to persist, highlighting the need for clarity and accountability in the use of taxpayer funds.
