This primer responds to South Australia's proposed Electoral (Accountability and Integrity) Amendment Bill, concerning political donations and public funding of political parties. It argues that while the Bill claims to ban donations, it introduces several loopholes and ultimately increases public funding significantly, disproportionately benefiting major parties.

The primer's analysis focuses on the Bill's unintended consequences. It argues that the proposed funding model, while seemingly aimed at reducing reliance on private donations, would actually escalate public expenditure on political parties. The significant increase in administrative funding, particularly for major parties, raises concerns about the Bill's true intention and its impact on electoral fairness. 

Key findings

• The Bill does not completely ban political donations, allowing exemptions for levies on MP and staffer salaries and through "nominated entities."
• The Bill introduces a substantial increase in public funding, estimated at $18 million per cycle, with a disproportionate share (75%) allocated to major parties.
• The increase in administrative funding contradicts expert advice, which recommended a reduction to ensure efficiency in party operations.
• The per-MP funding model is flawed and illogical, evident in the special allowance for parties with two MPs, which solely benefits the Greens.
• Advance funding provisions based on past election performance create disproportionate advantages.