Political funding inquiry should not delay reforming legislation before next election

Greens democracy spokesperson Senator Lee Rhiannon has advocated that the federal parliament legislate for political donation reform before the next election raising concerns that another parliamentary inquiry should not delay action.

"Political donation reforms are already well documented. We know what needs to happen - MPs should get on with the job and pass the necessary legislation," Senator Rhiannon said.

"The Greens will not oppose an inquiry if the majority of Senators prefer that to dealing with legislation now but we do not want to delay the implementation of overdue reforms.

"The 2011 parliamentary inquiry into the funding of political parties and John Faulkner's Green Paper and the associated submissions have thoroughly analysed changes needed in our electoral funding regime.

"The 2008 Green Paper on political donations prepared by Senator John Faulkner, then Special Minister for State, offers a robust analysis of the challenges and a way forward for reform.

"The recommendations in the Greens submission to that inquiry are an excellent blueprint for donations reform.

"The 2011 inquiry by the Joint Standing Committee on the funding of political parties and election campaigns also is a solid body of work that helps inform the way forward.

"We do not need an inquiry to implement continuous disclosure for donations of $1000 or more, a donations cap of $5000 to a party and $2000 to a candidate and modest election spending caps.

"A National ICAC should also be included in these reforms. These changes would dramatically clean up our democracy.

"It is time the government presented legislation to the parliament on election funding reform and we can get on with the debate and pass the reforms before the next election," Senator Rhiannon said.

Contact Brami Jegan 0487350880