Data from the Independent Parliamentary Expenses Authority reveals MPs and senators across parties billed more than $4 million since 2022 for business-class flights and related costs to bring family on work trips. Trade Minister Don Farrell led with $48,178, followed by independents, opposition figures like Peter Dutton at $36,542, and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at $28,229.
Communications Minister Anika Wells faced questions over $36,143 in family travel plus event-linked transport like sports finals and a $1,000 idle car at the Australian Open; she referred her claims for audit while expressing understanding of public concerns.
Amid cost-of-living pressures, politicians defend the perks for work-life balance, but opposition calls for reforms like caps grow as IPEA reviews continue.
