$126,000 flies away

NORTH Queensland’s state members spent more than $126,000 of taxpayers’ money on flights between their electorates and Brisbane on parliamentary sanctioned business.

The figures have been released as part of the Air Warrant and Alternative Travel Expenditure annual report, which was released on Thursday. The report covers the period from July 1, 2020, to June 30, 2021.

Certain electorates around Queensland are given air warrants if they are not within driving distance of Brisbane.

Each MP is given 60 air warrants, with one equating to a single business class ticket on a flight.

Of the three Labor MPS, Thuringowa MP Aaron Harper claimed the most at $25,599.29, while Resources Minister Scott Stewart claimed the least at $13,468.71.

Out of all the North Queensland-based politicians, it was Katter’s Australian Party leader Robbie Katter who claimed the least amount of money on travel at $13,247.64. Burdekin MP Dale Last claimed more than $35,700 in flights between Brisbane and Townsville.

The most expensive trip a North Queensland MP took was Les Walker’s return trip from Townsville to Brisbane for $2339 in May this year.

The MP was elected to office in the October 2020 state election, replacing former Mundingburra MP Coralee O’rourke.

Mr Walker claimed 24 flights between Townsville and Brisbane in that period, mostly for parliamentary sittings.

A Qantas flight for the next sitting of parliament, scheduled for October 12-14, costs a minimum of $248 for an economy fare.

A business class flight, which MPS are eligible to claim, costs $886.

On one occasion Mr Katter flew from Townsville to Brisbane and then returned to Mount Isa under the classification of attending business directly relating to his electorate, and studies, investigations or inquiries on matters relating to the duties and responsibilities of a member of parliament.

On only one occasion did Mr Katter fly from Mount Isa to Brisbane in the capacity as KAP leader only.

Leaders of the opposition, a recognised political party, or minor party are given air warrant allowances during an election period for campaigning purposes.

The MPS are able to take the trips for the purpose of party meetings, functions, conferences, committee meetings and more.

The air warrant does not include regular travel expenses which each MP is eligible for.