Dutton Defends Fundraiser Attendance Amid Cyclone Threat

Peter Dutton, the Opposition Leader, faced criticism for leaving Queensland to attend a fundraising dinner at billionaire Justin Hemmes' mansion while Tropical Cyclone Alfred approached. Despite insisting that the event was not a party and defending his decision as politically motivated criticism, Dutton acknowledged he had received a briefing about the cyclone that morning before flying to Sydney. He returned to Queensland the following morning before the cyclone made landfall, emphasizing that the storm had not started by then. Dutton's critics, including Labor senator Murray Watt, accused him of prioritizing fundraising over his constituents' safety, while Prime Minister Anthony Albanese refrained from commenting on the controversy, emphasizing a focus on non-political support for those affected. Dutton also mentioned that his trip included meetings with religious leaders, although suspicions arose regarding discussions of potential donations. The incident has sparked a broader debate about the appropriateness of political fundraising during natural disasters.