Developers continue to buy political influence

Latest election donation data out - developers continue to buy political influence

The latest data on political party donations released today by the Australian Electoral Commission reveals that developers continue to spend tens of thousands of dollars to buy access to Liberal and Labor MPs, Greens MP Lee Rhiannon said today.

"At the same time that the top twelve donor developers handed over more than $1 million to the Labor and Liberal Parties, the NSW Labor and Liberal MPs joined forces to weaken planning laws in NSW," Ms Rhiannon said.

"Westfield Capital Corp. Ltd alone gave $330,000 to the Labor and Liberal Parties. The head of Westfield, Mr Lowy has made no secret that he expects government leaders to meet him when he wishes.

"Developers in NSW can now get the go ahead on major developments direct from the Minister who can override environmental and heritage laws. There is no obligation on the Planning Minister to consider community concerns.

"The Planning Minister's powers to approve critical infrastructure such as the Kurnell desalination plant cannot be challenged.

"There is an unhealthy relationship between the Labor and Liberal parties and the big developers.

"The Greens don't know what deals are done behind closed doors but it certainly looks suspicious when laws are changed that benefit one commercial sector," Ms Rhiannon said.

Top twelve donor developers in 2005-6 gave $1,019,050


For more information visit the Greens donations website