By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Property developer John Woodman has told an IBAC inquiry it is “common” for developers to make large donations to political parties in exchange for support for their projects.
Mr Woodman conceded he’d “upped the ante”, lifting his donation to Cranbourne Labor candidate Pauline Richards from $5,000 to $20,000 ahead of the 2018 state election, the Operation Sandon inquiry heard.
He agreed with counsel assisting Michael Tovey QC that it was in exchange for Ms Richards’ support for Amendment C219 – a proposed rezoning of industrial land to residential in Cranbourne West.
Mr Woodman said he gave an “initial contribution” at a fundraising function, and then increased the donation upon suggestion by the Labor party.
“C219 had been indicated to us by local members of the Labor Party that it would be approved prior to the election, and in support of that notion it was obviously – and it was my ambition for that to occur.
“But there’s no question that in my enthusiasm to have C219 approved, there’s no question that I may have increased the contribution.”
Mr Tovey asked Mr Woodman how common was it for developers to make “substantial donations to a political party” in exchange for that party supporting a particular planning project. “Common,” Mr Woodman said.
Mr Tovey asked Mr Woodman if it was time that property developers were barred from donating to political campaigns.
“I believe that has occurred already, sir, to a great extent and we are now at a maximum of $1,000 per person per year,” Mr Woodman said – referring to laws that came into effect after the 2018 State election.
“I’ve got to say, sir, I’m not sure how that legislation is working at the moment.
“But in the trueness of transparency I would agree with you, sir.
Ms Richards was elected at the 2018 state poll, replacing long-time Cranbourne MP Jude Perera.
Mr Woodman said he’d supported Mr Perera in the past, referring to the ex-MP’s “incredible contribution”, the expansion of its racing complex and the Royal Botanical Gardens Cranbourne project.
During the hearing, Mr Tovey made a point that IBAC had not found any “impropriety” by any Government MP.
“But what we are concerned about is whether through the cultivation of politicians Mr Woodman has sought to or achieved undue access, and it’s that aspect which concerns us.”
