CANBERRA, June 13 (Xinhua) -- Donations and gifts to politicians, political candidates and political parties would be banned under world-leading laws proposed by the Premier of South Australia (SA).
Peter Malinauskas on Wednesday night announced plans to introduce electoral reforms that would ban electoral donations from state politics in SA.
Under the proposed laws, those found in breach of the ban would face up to 10 years in prison and a 50,000 Australian dollar (33,311 U.S. dollars) fine.
In a speech at a University of South Australia (UniSA) event, Malinauskas conceded the laws could be subject to a challenge in the High Court on constitutional grounds but said the proposal would make SA a world leader in ending the nexus between money and political power.
"We want money out of politics. We know this is not easy. These reforms may well face legal challenges," he said.
"But we are determined to deliver them, with this bill to be introduced in the parliament in the near future."
Loans to politicians, candidates and registered political parties would also be banned unless they come from a bank or other financial institution.
Funding to allow parties and candidates to contest elections, run campaigns and promote political ideas would come from the state.
New political parties and candidates would be allowed to receive donations worth up to 2,700 AUD (1,799 USD) to ensure they are not disadvantaged against established opponents.
Party membership fees will also be allowed to continue but will be capped at a maximum of 100 AUD (66.6 USD) per year.
Malinauskas promised to outlaw political donations in the lead-up to his victory in the 2022 South Australian election, saying at the time that it was a necessary move to restore trust in democracy. ■
