Australia Delays Election Finance Reform Legislation

In South Africa, the Electoral Commission revealed that only three political parties declared donations for the second quarter of the 2024/2025 financial year, totaling R8,554,213, with the African National Congress (ANC) contributing the majority at R7,212,500. In Australia, Finance Minister Katy Gallagher announced the shelving of the electoral reform bill intended to cap donation amounts and increase transparency due to failed negotiations with the Coalition, despite plans to revisit the issue in February 2024. The proposed reforms included lowering the donation disclosure threshold and imposing spending caps for political parties. The Coalition expressed concerns about the limitations on donations and transparency measures, which they believe may hinder their political activities. As the parliamentary session ends, Gallagher has committed to continued discussions with crossbenchers over the summer to seek a compromise. The situation raises questions about the role of big money in politics and the effectiveness of proposed reforms.