National Party – possible associated entities

Updated: 23 December 2010

This advice sets out the AEC's conclusion in relation to the matters described below:

The matter:

Whether certain trustee companies and trusts are associated entities of the National Party of Australia – Victoria and the National Party of Australia – NSW.

The trustee companies and trusts are Doogary Proprietary Limited, National Party Foundation, Pilliwinks Pty Ltd, NPA Vic Settlement, Natpar Pty Ltd, National Free Enterprise Foundation, Centralised Trustee Foundation, Comserv (No 2092) Pty Ltd, National Building Foundation, Green and Gold Foundation and Supporters Foundation.

When matter raised:

An ongoing issue, including being raised directly with the AEC by the Greens in 2002 and again in 2004.

How matter raised:

AEC compliance reviews, Senate Estimates hearings, research by the Australian Greens, press reports.

Legislation:

Part XX of the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918.

AEC process:

The AEC obtained information about the trustee companies and trusts, including details of their operation and structure, and reviewed disclosure returns lodged by the parties and certain of the foundations. The AEC took legal advice as to whether the trustee companies and trusts are associated entities for the purposes of the Act.

AEC conclusion:

After reviewing the information obtained about the trustee companies and trusts, and legal advice, the AEC has concluded that the trustee companies and trusts do not meet the definition of associated entity under the Act and are not required to lodge associated entity financial disclosure returns.

Date: 14 February 2005