Mathias Cormann (WA, Liberal Party, Vice-President of the Executive Council) Share this | Hansard source

Firstly, let me correct Senator Waters. The chair of the COVID commission is not getting a salary. Following the announcement of the National COVID-19 Coordination Commission, the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet undertook work to establish an arrangement to cover the assessed likely expenses of the chair and a suitable per diem for the commissioners. Neither the Prime Minister nor his office was involved in the establishment of these arrangements—and, as you have indicated, the department has provided a further statement, following the Senate committee hearing that you reference. Mr Power's flights, accommodation and other incidental travel costs are being covered, in his role as NCCC chair. However, he is not receiving a salary. In developing and executing Mr Power's contract, Prime Minister and Cabinet has estimated travel costs to and from Canberra, and he does come from Perth. We are a big continent, and people from Western Australia should also be allowed to participate— (Time expired)