Lobbyists Gain Permanent Access to Australian Parliament, New Data Shows
Published
New data shows that Labor and Coalition members of parliament are giving permanent access to Parliament House to some of the country's largest resources companies and a lobby group. The information suggests that these organisations can enter the building more easily than many other visitors.
The Guardian reported that MPs from both major parties have been issuing passes that allow lobbyists to move through the parliament without the usual restrictions. Those who receive these passes often work for big mining and energy companies, which have strong interests in government decisions about policy, taxes and environmental rules. The lobby group named in the report also has long-standing connections with politicians in Canberra.
Supporters of greater transparency say that the public should know who has regular access to the people who make Australia's laws. They argue that clear rules and public records of such passes would help people trust the political system. The article does not state that any laws were broken, but it raises questions about how easily special interests can reach decision-makers.
It is not yet clear whether parliament will change its access rules or require MPs to publish more details about the passes they grant. The issue is likely to be discussed further as journalists and members of parliament examine the data in more detail.
Sources: The Guardian
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