Pauline Hanson’s Use of Taxpayer-Funded Travel Under Scrutiny

Pauline Hanson, leader of the One Nation party, has faced increasing scrutiny regarding her use of taxpayer-funded travel, particularly following her chartering of a private plane to attend an event honoring mining magnate Gina Rinehart. The flight, costing taxpayers nearly $9,000, has raised questions about compliance with parliamentary rules governing the use of public funds.

The Guardian

On October 19, 2025, Hanson chartered a private plane from Tamworth to Avalon to attend the opening of Nicholas Hancock House at Marcus Oldham College, an agricultural institution that received a $2 million donation from Rinehart. The flight cost $8,870, and Hanson's spokesperson defended the choice, stating that no commercial flights were available for the route. The event was significant as it marked the opening of new student accommodation at the college, which charges over $70,000 annually for tuition and accommodation.

The Guardian

Following the event, Hanson traveled on Rinehart's Gulfstream G700 private jet from Melbourne to Sydney, a flight she initially failed to declare, only updating her records after media inquiries. The next day, she flew from Sydney to Brisbane at a cost of $1,090.64 to taxpayers. During the event, Hanson discussed issues related to student loans and taxation, stating, “we are overtaxed in this country,” and suggested that One Nation would eliminate certain taxes if in power.

The GuardianThe Guardian

Hanson's travel claims have previously been scrutinized, particularly regarding her attendance at political fundraisers for One Nation, which may violate parliamentary guidelines. Records indicate that she billed taxpayers for numerous flights associated with her daughter's Senate campaign, raising concerns about the appropriateness of using public funds for political activities. Critics argue that such claims should not be made unless directly related to parliamentary duties.

The Guardian

Hanson's office has maintained that her travel was justified due to her parliamentary responsibilities, asserting that she attended the college event to discuss issues affecting students. However, the Independent Parliamentary Expenses Authority (IPEA) has previously reviewed her claims, and she was cleared of wrongdoing after providing diary entries that linked her travel to parliamentary business.

The Guardian

There are discrepancies regarding the nature of Hanson's travel claims. While her office asserts that all expenses were legitimate and related to parliamentary duties, critics and some media reports suggest that many trips were primarily for political fundraising. Additionally, the failure to declare flights on Rinehart's private jet raises questions about compliance with Senate rules.

The Guardian

The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) is currently conducting a compliance review of election campaign funding, which includes scrutiny of One Nation's claims. This review follows previous instances where Hanson was required to repay significant amounts due to improper claims. The outcomes of this review may further impact Hanson's political standing and the financial practices of One Nation.

The Guardian

• “If it was One Nation, we’d get rid of payroll tax, a lot of these other taxes that we have.” — Pauline Hanson

The Guardian

• “I can’t remember.” — Pauline Hanson, when asked about her undeclared flights.

The Guardian

• “At the event, Hanson told the audience she was “honoured” to attend at Rinehart’s “kind invitation”.” — Spokesperson for Pauline Hanson.

The Guardian