Malcolm Turnbull (Wentworth, Liberal Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I move:

That this bill be now read a second time.

This bill supports the Independent Parliamentary Expenses Authority Bill 2017 by addressing consequential matters that would arise from the enactment of theIndependent Parliamentary Expenses Authority Act 2017.

The bill would provide exemptions to the freedom of information scheme established under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 for the Independent Parliamentary Expenses Authority in relation to documents requesting that the authority give personal advice relating to parliamentary work related travel expenses and allowances to parliamentarians and their staff. The exemption also extends to any other documents connected with the performance of those functions.

These exemptions are intended to ensure that the authority can provide frank advice to parliamentarians and their staff, and to encourage parliamentarians and their staff to engage with the authority at an early stage to seek guidance where they are unsure of their travel expenses or allowances. I commend the bill to the House.

Debate adjourned.