Queensland Government reforms to cut the influence of money in politics could be a game changer
The Palaszczuk Government’s announcement today that it will limit political donations and spending in Queensland elections has the potential to be a game changing reform to strengthen Queensland democracy, the Human Rights Law Centre said today.
Alice Drury, Lawyer at the Human Rights Law Centre, said a limit on political donations and election spending is vital to restoring democracy and achieving greater political equality.
“Without limits on political donations and election spending, politicians will respond to those with the biggest bank balance, instead of those with the best ideas. Australians are fed up with the status quo. We need a level playing field. Election campaigns should be a time when people with important things to say on matters of public interest can be heard, not just those with enough cash to buy a national platform.”
While the Human Rights Law Centre welcomed the intent behind the reforms, Drury said it was critical that the Palaszczuk Government consult properly with civil society so that the proposed legislation does not stifle advocacy by charities and small grassroots campaigns.
“Limits on political donations and election spending are the reforms we need to get the influence of big money out of Australian politics. But it’s equally important that we protect the rights of ordinary people to have their voices heard on issues they care deeply about, be it through charities or local community groups. It is vital that the Palaszczuk Government sit down with civil society before this proposal becomes law to work through any unintended consequences for advocacy.”
In particular, the Human Rights Law Centre is advocating to ensure that the donation limit is not set too low, and that the limits also apply to income used by big business and industry associations to influence elections.
“These laws could have unintended consequences for people who are actively engaged in the issues that they care about, be it climate change or women’s rights. It’s critical that the laws do not effectively prevent small charities and local community groups from speaking on important issues in an election year.”
“It is also critical that big business and industry associations that engage in election campaigns are captured by the donation limits and transparency measures, given that they rely on membership fees and sponsorships rather than donations. We can’t have an unbalanced regime that captures donations to charities and other not-for-profits but not income used by big business in election campaigns.”
“We look forward to seeing the draft legislation and providing feedback to the Government to help ensure that Queensland has the best electoral laws in the country.”
Media contact:
Michelle Bennett, Communications Director, Human Rights Law Centre, 0419 100 519