House debates

Thursday, 4 April 2019

Questions to the Speaker

Political Fundraising

3:27 pm

Photo of Rebekha SharkieRebekha Sharkie (Mayo, Centre Alliance) Share this | | Hansard source

Under standing order 103, I have a question that relates to the administration of the House. On Tuesday, I understand that members of the coalition held events in Parliament House, the peoples' house, of up to $800 a seat for the purpose of political fundraising. May I ask that you please inform the House whether there are any rules, guidelines or restrictions on using the peoples' house as a venue to raise funds for political parties?

Photo of Tony SmithTony Smith (Speaker) Share this | | Hansard source

I thank the member for Mayo for her question. There is an events policy that sets out the rules. It's on the members and senators portal. On page 6—I'll table a copy for the benefit of the member—it specifically sets out that political and other fundraising events are indeed allowed, and all of the costs associated with them are obviously met with by the people holding the events. That's been in the policy for a long time. These events have occurred in the House the whole time I've been here, which is long time.