Big-spending MPs
$1.9m in expenses, Collins tops the list
TASMANIA’S federal parliamentarians claimed a combined $1.9m in work expenses in the June quarter, with two Labor MHRs and a government minister topping the list of big spenders.
According to new figures published by the Independent Parliamentary Expenses Authority, Franklin MP Julie Collins spent $158,711.24 between April 1 and June 30 this year, while Lyons MP Brian Mitchell spent $147,518.57.
They were followed closely by Devonport-based federal minister Richard Colbeck, whose expenditure was $143,668.01. Braddon Liberal MP Gavin Pearce claimed $132,695.77.
Members of parliament are entitled to claim domestic and overseas travel expenses, and are provided a travel allowance. They can also claim travel expenses for family members and employees, as well as costs associated with office administration and facilities, telecommunications, printing, and transport.
The bulk of Ms Collins’s expenses ($82,033.19) related to printing and communications.
“I use my communications budget to keep constituents up to date with issues impacting them and work done to represent the people of Franklin,” Ms Collins, the federal opposition’s agriculture spokeswoman, said.
“This period included newsletters to the Franklin electorate with important information about Covid-19 and getting vaccinated, and invitations to community events where I get an opportunity to hear directly from my constituents.”
Similarly, Mr Mitchell and
Mr Pearce spent big on communications – $55,806.76 and $65,246.54, respectively.
A spokesman for Mr Mitchell said the Lyons MP “actively communicates with his constituents, which requires printing, postage and distribution costs”.
Tasmanian Liberal Senator Colbeck, who holds the ministerial portfolios of Aged Care Services, Sport and Senior Australians, claimed $57,578.07 for domestic travel for his staff. He was contacted for comment.