Corruption risk could rise under donation ban repeal, watchdog warns
Queensland's corruption watchdog has warned lifting a ban on political donations from developers could increase the risk of "actual or perceived" corruption.
Lifting a ban on political developer donations could increase the risk of corruption in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games, Queensland's corruption watchdog says.
The state government introduced sweeping proposed changes to electoral laws to parliament last year.
The legislation would allow property developers to make donations at the state government level, a practice banned in 2018 by the then Labor administration.
The LNP has long decried the move, believing it creates an uneven political landscape, with Labor able to access funding via unions.
Queensland is entering a period of increased investment in property and infrastructure development, the CCC noted in its submission. (ABC News: Luke Bowden)
In a parliamentary committee submission, Crime and Corruption Commission (CCC) chair Bruce Barbour noted the proposed changes increased the risk of "actual or perceived" corruption in the years leading up to the 2032 Games.
"The CCC considers that aspects of the changes proposed in the Bill are a significant departure from Queensland's robust political donations framework and are out-of-step with reforms introduced to manage risks associated with political influence, and perceptions of it," he submitted.
"Queensland is entering a period of increased investment in property and infrastructure development driven by population growth, economic diversification, with major sporting and other events.
Political donations from property developers were banned in Queensland in 2018 under then-premier Annastacia Palaszczuk. (ABC News: Matt Roberts)
"There is concern that the reintroduction of property developer donations could exacerbate real and/or perceived risks of undue or improper influence, particularly as developer interests align closely with major projects."
The ban was first proposed by the CCC in 2018 at the local government level, but Labor extended it to state politics.
The donation restrictions for local councils would remain under the proposed laws.
Mr Barbour submitted his concerns could be addressed by requiring all property developer donations be disclosed, regardless of the value, and the origin of the donation be clearly identifiable.
Currently, donations above $1,000 must be declared.
'Financial gerrymander'
Speaking on the Sunshine Coast on Thursday, Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said he was confident the changes would uphold integrity in government.