Simon Birmingham (SA, Liberal Party, Minister for Finance) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Lambie for the question. The rates of travel allowance and arrangements for travel allowance are set independently through the Remuneration Tribunal. It has been a longstanding practice that, in relation to the rates paid for members and senators to stay in Canberra relative to the rates paid in other capital cities, there is a discounted rate applied in Canberra, recognising and, indeed, encouraging members and senators to make longer-term arrangements in relation to their accommodation in Canberra. That's a private matter for each member and senator to undertake, but the government stands by the independent process of the Remuneration Tribunal on these matters.