By Peter Douglas
FEDERAL Member for La Trobe Jason Wood has joined a host of MPs calling for reform into the parliamentary expenses system.
After high-profile Liberal frontbencher Sussan Ley last week came under fire for alleged misuse of the system, the issue of parliamentary entitlements has again flared.
Ms Ley resigned her portfolio after initially stepping aside from ministerial duties, after reports she purchased a Gold Coast apartment while interstate and claiming expenses for official duties.
This is in addition to reports senior Liberal ministers claimed expenses for attending a New Year’s Eve party hosted by Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.
Mr Wood said taxpayers would be better served through changes towards a more transparent system for MPs.
“Taxpayers rightly expect that the Australian Government will spend their hard-earned money wisely and with respect,” he said.
“The parliamentary expenses system needs to change and the government is implementing changes as recommended by the Independent Review into Parliamentarians’ Work Expenses.”
Mr Wood said MPs, too, would benefit from a more streamlined system.
“The biggest problem is that currently if MPs seek clarification on an issue, we will never be sent a clear ‘yes’ or ‘no’ ruling,” he said.
“This can be very confusing, when, as a parliamentarian, we’re invited to events locally and nationally and it’s often unclear which definitions they fall under.
“Significant legislative changes are required to streamline the parliamentary work expenses system.”
ABC reports say federal politicians claimed almost $49 million in expenses over the first half of last year.
The report shows from 1 January to 30 June last year Mr Wood claimed $8736, while neighbouring MP and Federal Speaker Tony Smith claimed $12,094.
This is in comparison to Foreign Minister Julie Bishop claiming $37,834, while Ms Ley claimed $36,775.
Ms Bishop and Ms Ley were the two highest claiming federal MPs.
