Media release – Andrew Wilkie MHR, Independent Member for Clark, 26 October 2021
STATEMENT ON UPHOLDING OF PARLIAMENTARY PRIVILEGE
I am delighted with the finding today, by the Standing Committee of Privileges and Members’ Interests, that communications relating to ClubsNSW between my office and Mr Troy Stolz are protected by parliamentary privilege. The communications regarded non-compliance by 95 per cent of registered clubs in NSW with federal anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing legislation.
This development brings clarity to the right of people to deal confidentially with Members of Parliament when that interaction is directly related to the MP’s work in the Parliament. It’s a huge win for whistle-blowers, in particular, who can now confidently bring their revelations to the attention of parliamentarians.
The ruling by the Committee is also a significant precedent for all Australian parliaments, and indeed Commonwealth parliaments around the world.
