[Greens-Media] ICAC findings prove need for a ban on political donations

[Mithra Cox]

MEDIA RELEASE
11th August 2005

ICAC findings prove need for a ban on political donations

ICAC recommendations relating to an investigation into the Orange Grove shopping centre demonstrate the need for government ministers and political parties not to accept donations from political lobbyists, Greens MLC Lee Rhiannon said today.

"Donations by political lobbyists to government ministers and political parties create a perception that the highest donor has the greatest influence over government policies," Ms Rhiannon said.

"The NSW Labor party receives more money in donations from developers than any other source.  

"The NSW Labor Party received total donations of $7,185,134 in 2003-04.  Of that, $1,375,390 was from property developers alone.*  

"The public is entitled to ask what these developers have to gain from donating hundreds of thousands of dollars to the party in control of the government.

"ICAC has recommended that the Ministerial Code of Conduct be amended to include guidelines about lobbying activities.

"Election funding should be capped to prevent parties from chasing donations and creating a perception of undue influence by donors.

"The public loses faith in democracy when the system is seen to be corrupted by money changing hands," Ms Rhiannon said.