Proposed changes relating to caps on electoral expenditure by political parties: a summary of constitutional issues

27 January 2012This short paper discusses the constitutional issues associated with the proposed amendments in the Election Funding, Expenditure and Disclosures Amendment Bill 2011 relating to caps on electoral expenditure.

Significant issues of interpretation remain to be clarified in relation to the implied freedom of political communication. Furthermore, the issues identified in this paper can only be resolved by the High Court.

This paper is to be read in conjunction with e-brief 1/2012, which discusses the constitutional issues relating to the Bill's proposed ban on the making of political donations by third-party interest groups.

Noticeboard

20 December 2011

On 18 November 2011, Parliamentary Secretary for Immigration and Multicultural Affairs, Senator the Hon Kate Lundy, announced the establishment of an independent panel of eminent community leaders to conduct an inquiry into Australian Government services to ensure they are responsive to the needs of Australians from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

09 December 2011

The Historical Justice and Memory website now includes a daily newsblog.

02 December 2011

Applications are now open for a unique training opportunity for selected individuals develop the skills, networks and knowledge needed to be effective in forging a more sustainable future.