The problem with Albanese’s Qantas perks

ABC News Daily

We’d all like to fly business class, but most of us end up at the back.

So, no wonder claims that the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese arranged personal flight upgrades directly with the boss of Qantas has caused a furore.

Today, Sean Johnson, founder of the Open Politics website and former lobbyist and Liberal party staffer on political gift giving and why it needs to end.

He explains the exclusive nature of the Qantas Chairman’s Lounge and its implications for political transparency.

He highlights the potential conflicts of interest that arise when politicians accept such perks.

Sean Johnson also discusses the broader culture of gift-giving in politics and its impact on public trust.

He proposes a complete ban on gifts and sponsored travel to mitigate these issues.

Editor’s note: After this episode was recorded, the prime minister’s office put out a statement denying that Anthony Albanese ever called former Qantas CEO Alan Joyce to ask for flight upgrades.

Featured:

Sean Johnson, founder of Open Politics

Key Topics:

• Anthony Albanese flight upgrades
• Qantas Chairman’s Lounge
• Political gift-giving
• Conflicts of interest in politics
• Public trust in politicians
• Transparency in government
• Political perks and privileges
• Anti-Corruption measures
• Political culture