Cory Bernardi, the South Australian leader of One Nation, has reimbursed a “substantial” sum of money to Gina Rinehart’s company, S Kidman & Co. The payment, which exceeded $40,000, covers private flights used during the state’s recent election campaign.
Compliance with New Electoral Laws
Bernardi, who was elected to the South Australian legislative council in March, confirmed the repayment was made to comply with new state laws. These regulations prohibit political candidates and parties from receiving gifts or electoral donations from businesses, individuals, or unions.
The reimbursement followed an invoice Bernardi received several weeks ago. He stated he has no regrets about the flights, asserting the expense was “worth every cent” to ensure regional and remote communities could engage with One Nation leaders.
The Role of Pauline Hanson
One Nation’s federal leader, Pauline Hanson, accompanied Bernardi on flights on March 14 and 15. In her federal register of interests, Hanson thanked Adam Giles, the chief executive of S Kidman & Co, for the travel.
When questioned about the $5,000 individual donation cap, Hanson claimed she was merely a “passenger.” She argued that financial liability for the flights rested solely with Bernardi.
Legal nuances exist under the South Australian Electoral Act, as the corporate donation ban and individual caps apply specifically to gifts used for state election purposes. Gifts classified for federal purposes fall under commonwealth law, which may have permitted Hanson to accept the flights as part of her national leadership duties.
Broader Financial Ties
The relationship between One Nation and Gina Rinehart has remained a point of contention. Hanson has publicly denied that her party is financially reliant on Rinehart or her companies.
However, Barnaby Joyce, who defected to One Nation last year, told The Saturday Paper that Rinehart was a donor to the party. Hanson has updated her register at least five times in the last six months to include previously undeclared travel gifted by Rinehart’s firms, including a trip to a conservative conference in Florida.
Potential Future Implications
The distinction between “state” and “federal” purposes for these flights could lead to further scrutiny of how national leaders campaign during state elections. There may be ongoing debates regarding the interpretation of the South Australian Electoral Act.
Given the history of register updates, Hanson may be required to provide further disclosures if additional gifted travel is identified. A spokesperson for Rinehart has declined to comment on the matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Cory Bernardi repay the money to S Kidman & Co?
He reimbursed the funds to comply with new South Australian state laws that prohibit political parties and candidates from receiving electoral donations or gifts from businesses, individuals, or unions.
Which locations were visited during the campaign flights?
The flights took Bernardi and Pauline Hanson between Adelaide, Mount Gambier, Maitland, and Coober Pedy.
What is the penalty for breaching the donation ban in South Australia?
The ban is a world-first reform that carries a penalty of $50,000 or a maximum of 10 years’ imprisonment.
Do you believe strict donation bans are an effective way to reduce corporate influence in state politics?
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