The Coalition and Greens have accused the Andrews government of 'deflecting' from Labor’s internal problems with a plan for a funding rule change. | paulsakkal springst
But Andrews said he would “go further” by passing new laws, which were not recommended by the independent agencies, to block parties from receiving public funding if they did not establish minimum standards to stamp out improper activities such as branch stacking. This funding equates to about $6 for every vote at an election and is the main source of funding for future campaigns because private donations are capped at a low level.
Shadow treasurer David Davis said the move to ensnare other parties in new laws was an attempt to shirk responsibility. A veteran political insider, speaking anonymously to detail his view of the government’s strategy, said it was an astute political tactic by the premier to shift focus onto other parties.
The government has yet to release details of new legislation required to prohibit public funding for parties that do not establish minimum standards. In a document distributed to media outlets, it explained new requirements for parties would include traceable means for membership payments, mandatory photo ID checks for new members, proof of eligibility to hold a concessional membership and measures to ensure compliance in using the electoral roll.