19 June 2008
Developers have today welcomed the first cross-party report calling for an across-the-board ban on political donations.
The chief executive of the Urban Taskforce, Aaron Gadiel, said that the cross-party agreement was common sense.
Its a win for the whole community, Mr Gadiel said.
Weve consistently argued for a total national ban on all donations, from anyone, to all political parties in local, state and federal elections.
Weve always opposed illogical attempts to ban political donations from particular groups, such as developers.
The parliamentary committee is right to recommend an outright ban on donations from everyone, including the mining and petroleum sectors, the timber industry, the gun lobby, environmental campaigners and other interest groups.
I hope that the NSW and Federal governments act on this proposal quickly.
A total national ban would boost community confidence in the political system.
Political parties should be funded by their own members and a public funding formula tied to election results.
Integrity in the planning system is important.
However, any reforms should not just be limited to the planning system, but should also apply in all areas of government decision-making, including tenders, licensing and board and judicial appointments.
The Urban Taskforce is a property development industry group, representing Australias most prominent property developers and equity financiers.
