The Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters has commenced a review into the operation of the amendments, dealing with foreign donations and related matters, made by the Electoral Legislation Amendment (Electoral Funding and Disclosure Reform) Act 2018.

This matter was referred to the Committee for inquiry by the Senate on 6 December 2018. The Committee was directed to report within 6 months on the second anniversary of the Royal Assent, which occurred on 30 November 2020. The full resolution, including terms of reference can be found here.

The Act, which passed both Houses of Parliament on 27 November 2018, amends the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918 to strengthen the political donation regime of the Federal Government, including through the establishment of a public register of non-party political actors and the prohibition on foreign donations. Further information on the Act can be found on the Electoral Legislation Amendment (Electoral Funding and Disclosure Reform) Act 2018 webpage.

Previous advisory reports of the Act

After the introduction of the Bill in the 45th Parliament, it was twice reviewed by the Committee. The first advisory report was presented on 9 April 2018 and contained 15 recommendations. These recommendations were considered by the Government, who subsequently proposed amendments to the Bill and referred these amendments to the Committee. The second advisory report was presented on 15 October 2018, and the Government circulated revised amendments in response.

Making a submission

The Committee invites written submissions addressing any or all of the areas of focus for the Committee’s inquiry. Submissions should clearly identify which areas of focus are being addressed.

Prospective submitters are advised that any submission to the Committee’s inquiry must be prepared solely for the inquiry and should not be published prior to being accepted by the Committee. Documents do not attract parliamentary privilege until they are accepted by the Committee. Submissions are requested by 11.59pm on Wednesday, 17 February 2021.

Further information about making a submission can be found on the making a submission webpage.