Story perspectives

Sports Minister Defends $4K Taxpayer-funded Family Flights

12/8/2025

26 4

Summary

Story summary

Sports Minister Anika Wells charged taxpayers over $4,000 to fly her husband, Finn McCarthy, to three cricket events, including Boxing Day Tests in 2022 and 2024.
She used family reunion entitlements for these flights while attending corporate hospitality events.
Wells defended $3,000 in taxpayer funds to fly her husband and two children to Thredbo for official business with the Australian Paralympic ski team.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese supported the actions.

1 of 1

Story summary

Sports Minister Anika Wells charged taxpayers over $4,000 to fly her husband, Finn McCarthy, to three cricket events, including Boxing Day Tests in 2022 and 2024.
She used family reunion entitlements for these flights while attending corporate hospitality events.
Wells defended $3,000 in taxpayer funds to fly her husband and two children to Thredbo for official business with the Australian Paralympic ski team.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese supported the actions.