Political parties in Australia received $168 million in donations for the year 2019-20. More than half of that is not declared and remains hidden. Corporate donors get access to political influence that ordinary voters cannot hope to equal. And reliance on donors is growing. How does this affect our democracy? Do donations buy political influence? Is there a better way to fund our political system?
Our Speakers
Charles Sampford is Director of the Institute for Ethics, Governance and Law, a joint initiative of United Nations University, Griffith, ANU, QUT and Jindal. His numerous publications include the 2021 report “Integrity Now – 21 reforms to restore the rule of law, accountability and public trust “, published with the Accountability Round Table, which touches on many issues of political integrity including political donations.
Ken Coghill is on the Board of Directors of the Accountability Round Table and is an outspoken critic of our current electoral funding system. He is a regular media commentator on political donations and related government integrity issues. He is an adjunct professor in governance and parliamentary studies at Swinburne University and a former Speaker of the Victorian Parliament.
All welcome to stay for our 'online pub' after the event:
With ongoing COVID situation, this is an effort to maintain the social aspect of our face to face events. So come prepared with your own BYO drink and nibbles for the after event discussion. We encourage all members to switch on video at the event to improve sociability.
A link to join the Zoom event will be forwarded via email upon RSVP below.
