Nova Peris (NT, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

My question is to the Minister for Finance, Senator Cormann. Has the minister written to the Minister for Indigenous Affairs seeking an urgent investigation into the Indigenous Land Corporation's purchase of Ayers Rock Resort; and, if so, what was Senator Scullion's response?

Mathias Cormann (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Finance) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I wrote to Senator Scullion in relation to this matter some time ago and was satisfied that all the necessary investigations had been conducted and that no new information had been put forward that warranted a further investigation.

Nova Peris (NT, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Mr President, I ask a supplementary question. What further action has the Minister for Finance taken in response to allegations raised by the Indigenous Land Corporation in relation to potential serious breaches of the Commonwealth Authorities and Companies Act?

Mathias Cormann (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Finance) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I am satisfied that all necessary investigations have taken place and that no new information has been brought forward.

Nova Peris (NT, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Mr President, I ask a further supplementary question. Has the chair of the Indigenous Land Corporation suggested to the minister that he obtain a formal assurance from Minister Scullion that he was not privy to information related to the proposed transaction or personally involved in discussions related to the financing? Has the minister sought this assurance from Senator Scullion?

Mathias Cormann (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Finance) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I have had a lot of correspondence from the chair of that organisation. I am satisfied that Senator Scullion has conducted all the appropriate inquiries.