UPDATE: Senior federal minister Anika Wells is facing intense scrutiny over her taxpayer-funded trips, totaling nearly $100,000, as she defends her spending while promoting Australia’s social media age ban. New revelations have surfaced regarding additional trips to Paris, Thredbo, and Adelaide, intensifying the debate over government expenses.
Wells acknowledged that her travel costs would provoke a “gut reaction” among Australians, but insists her trips adhered to government guidelines. Speaking to Sky News on Sunday, she stated, “I stand by it,” emphasizing the significance of her work in promoting policies that could lead to substantial changes.
The minister’s high-profile flight to New York to advocate for the impending social media age ban, which takes effect on Wednesday, has drawn criticism due to its hefty price tag. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese supported Wells, asserting the trip was critical to garnering international support. “This was an important event that led directly to the European Union taking action,” he noted on ABC Insiders.
Reports indicate that Wells undertook three trips to Paris over the past year at a staggering cost of $116,000. These visits included attendance at major sporting events such as the Rugby World Cup and the upcoming Paris Olympics. Despite the lavish expenses, Wells remarked, “I recall sometimes I was eating a muesli bar in the car,” attempting to justify the costs incurred by the government.
Opposition spokesperson Alex Hawke condemned the spending, stating it fails the “pub test” and could make royal expenses seem modest. “If the minister is eating a muesli bar, why is the taxpayer being charged for expensive dinners?” he questioned, highlighting the disconnect between her claims and the reported expenses.
Further controversy arose when Wells faced inquiries about utilizing travel entitlements for a friend’s birthday during a $3,600 work trip to Adelaide. Wells defended her actions, stating she was engaged in meetings regarding the South Australian Sport Institute.
In June 2024, she also approved $3,000 for her husband and children to accompany her to Thredbo, where they participated in family skiing while she attended meetings with Paralympics Australia. Wells maintained that all travel was within the family reunion and travel guidelines.
The scrutiny surrounding Wells’ expenses is reminiscent of past controversies involving government officials. In 2012, Tony Burke faced backlash over a $12,000 claim for family travel during a work trip to Uluru, ultimately repaying $8,656 when the details surfaced.
As public outrage grows, Wells has not indicated plans to repay any funds. “I work really hard,” she asserted, vowing to continue following the rules. With the social media age ban on the horizon, all eyes remain on the minister’s future actions and the broader implications of government spending.
Stay tuned for updates as this developing story unfolds.
