Zali Steggall (Warringah, Independent) Share this | Hansard source

I have a question for the assistant minister. This is in light of the speeches from both sides in relation to the state of our economy and the need to focus spending on those doing it tough. Could you please clarify to the House the process or calculation for having, the level of inquiry for having, and how it is value for money to the public to have in this legislation provision for an uncapped administrative assistance payment that equates to, on current numbers in the Australian parliament, some $4,820,000 of public money going to political parties yearly, which is made up of $2.72 million to the Labor Party per year, $1.56 million to the Liberal Party and $540,000 to the National Party for expenses, including expenditure for conferences, functions, staff, staff training, staff vehicles, office accommodation and even payment for interest on loans.

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