Albo dithers on Byrne
ANTHONY Albanese has refused to commit to referring embattled MP Anthony Byrne for investigation over confirmation he misused taxpayer funds.
Key crossbenchers have called on the Opposition Leader to refer the backbencher’s behaviour to the Finance Department for review.
Mr Byrne on Monday at a Victorian anti-corruption watchdog hearing confessed to using commonwealth funds to hire two staff members who did not show up to work and instead performed factional duties, which is not permitted. He also said he participated in branch stacking, which is not illegal but is against party rules.
But four days after the explosive revelations were laid bare, Mr Albanese is yet to refer the transgression to the department. His office has refused to say whether he would take this step.
Senator Jacqui Lambie said referring the matter to the department was the only mechanism available to Mr Albanese for further investigation at a federal level.
“The Department of Finance reviewing this stuff is like fairy floss on a stick – just a tick and flick when things get sticky. I wouldn‘t be starting or ending there,” Ms Lambie said.
“That said, it’s in Mr Albanese’s interests to turn over every stone and figure out what’s gone on here. These things have a way of coming back to bite.”
The Victorian Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission is investigating allegations of the misuse of public funds in state Labor.
But Mr Byrne’s stunning admission on Monday has raised concerns about the use of commonwealth funds to perform party political work.
The Department of Finance is able to investigate claims of misappropriation of funds and it is possible for Mr Albanese to ask that an investigation take place – despite protests from his office that it was not possible.
Asked if the department was investigating the matter already, a spokesperson said: “The department does not comment on individual parliamentarians or their staff.”
It’s understood the government will not refer the matter.
Mr Albanese in recent days has said the revelations highlight the need for a federal anti-corruption commission. When asked if Mr Albanese would refer the evidence, a spokesperson declined to comment.
On Wednesday Mr Albanese said: “Look, the IBAC processes are under way and it is important that they be allowed to take place independent of political interference.”
On Thursday he said a decision on Mr Byrne’s political future would not be made until the IBAC hearings were complete.
Mr Byrne was contacted for comment but did not respond. On Thursday he said he would await the IBAC findings.