While most would agree that only Australians should have the power to influence our election outcomes, our nation is one of the few western democracies where foreign money can still be used to influence domestic elections.

In announcing this Bill as part of a package of bills focusing on foreign interference in Australian politics, the Prime Minister specifically highlighted China, whilst noting that the reforms were not purely about China.

Freedom of speech is fundamental to a free society. Political communication is obviously an important mode of speech and accordingly, the laws and regulations that seek to restrict it are inherently concerning.

This guide summarises the often complex funding and disclosure laws in each Australian state and territory for the purpose of comparison.

Taking private donations out of the equation would help restore trust in the political system – and we’re already partway there, writes Mike Steketee.