Media Releases

Govt to Damage Democracy with Proposed Political Donations Agenda [29th Mar, 2006]
by Senator Andrew Murray

The Coalition Government today in the Senate confirmed its intention to weaken accountability and to strengthen the nexus between wealthy individuals, big corporate business and big corporate politics, according to the Australian Democrats.
The Finance and Public Administration Legislation Committee today tabled its Report on the Electoral and Referendum Amendment (Electoral Integrity and Other Measures) Bill 2005. According to Democrats' Electoral Matters spokesperson, Senator Andrew Murray the proposed changes outlined in the report can only lead to more secrecy and hidden influence and will place the integrity of our democracy at risk.
"The Coalition Government's intention raise the disclosure threshold from $1500 to $10,000 can only lead to even more secrecy and hidden influence especially since the multiple donations loophole means that donations up to $90,000 can be hidden," Senator Murray said.
"Moreover, the Coalition's plans to increase the tax-deductibility of individual donations to an indexed $1500 is offensive, as the Government is proposing to give political parties a better tax deductibility than it gives to many community organisations.
"The Democrats contend that vital accountability measures must be introduced if we are to protect the integrity of our democracy. The ever-escalating costs associated with running US-style election campaigns, as well as the organisational facets of political life, means more and more finance is required. As long as this powerful mix of business, unions, money and politics remains loosely regulated, Australian democracy will continue to be undermined. Corruption is already a problem. It must not become systemic."
Senator Murray said the Democrats' Dissenting Report provides vital accountability recommendations that must be introduced.
"Politicians and political parties must be protected from the undue influence and patronage of large donors. Without that the integrity of our democracy is at risk," Senator Murray concluded.