At the center of controversy, a government official is facing allegations of residing in taxpayer-funded accommodation at the parliamentary premises.
“How can Queenslanders trust this minister when he couldn’t answer the most basic question: where do you live?” questioned Deputy Opposition Leader Cameron Dick, highlighting a key concern of accountability.
In response, the accused, Mander, firmly denied any misconduct and took the initiative to refer the matter to the Electoral Commission of Queensland for review.
“I am fully confident that I have adhered to all the requirements set forth by the ECQ and the Australian Electoral Commission,” Mander asserted on April 23. “I have nothing to conceal, Mr. Speaker, which is why I have self-referred.”
The case has since been escalated to the Australian Electoral Commission for further examination.
It was sent up the chain to the AEC.
“The AEC does consider there is currently an absence of compelling evidence to determine Mr Mander resided at the enrolled address,” it declared last week, noting the matters in question related to a potential criminal offence.Â
Late this afternoon, Mander announced he was standing aside after news broke he had been referred to the Australian Federal Police for possible investigation.
He was made aware of the development last night and maintained he’d followed the correct processes and that it was his decision to stand aside
“I have no intention of this becoming a distraction to the important work of the government and so this afternoon I advised the premier I am standing aside today as minister while this is being sorted,” he said today.
He acknowledged this all started with the breakdown of his marriage, and he updated his electoral records to say he was living at an Arana Hills address.
He is now a backbencher and will cease receiving ministerial pay and perks.
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