More than 2,000 individuals currently enjoy unescorted access to the private areas of Parliament House in Canberra, with a significant number identified as political lobbyists. This privileged entry is facilitated through coveted orange passes, which allow holders to roam freely in corridors near MPs' offices without supervision.
Prime Minister Advocates for Greater Transparency
In a move aimed at enhancing accountability, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has formally requested a review of the policies governing these sponsored passes. In a letter addressed to House Speaker Milton Dick and Senate President Sue Lines, Albanese emphasized the need for "increased transparency and rigour" regarding passholders, particularly professional lobbyists.
The letter, obtained by media sources, states: "A growing number of individuals, particularly professional lobbyists, hold sponsored passes on the basis of business requirements, which provide unescorted access to the private areas of Parliament House." Albanese highlighted that such access is a "privilege" and should be subject to stricter scrutiny to uphold democratic integrity and security.
Crossbench Pressure and Public Disclosure
For years, the identities of passholders and the MPs who sponsor them have been kept secret, despite calls from crossbenchers and integrity advocates for greater openness. ACT Senator David Pocock has been a vocal proponent of transparency, creating an online public register last year to pressure all MPs to disclose their sponsored passes.
"Australians deserve to know who can walk in here and lobby their elected representatives. A strong democracy depends on transparency and accountability," Pocock asserted. He argued that sponsored passes grant privileged access that could unfairly influence decision-making, and the public has a right to know who benefits from this system.
As of mid-2024, there were over 2,050 sponsored passes issued, though the exact proportion held by paid lobbyists remains unknown. These passes are not limited to lobbyists; they also extend to representatives from non-government organizations, business leaders, and volunteers.
Review Process and Government Stance
The existing policy on sponsored passes was approved in August 2023 and is subject to a mandatory review every three years, prompting the current examination. A spokesperson for the speaker confirmed that the review will consider all aspects of the policy to ensure it is "relevant to the current environment and fit-for-purpose."
The Department of Parliamentary Services will consult with key stakeholders, including the Australian Federal Police and other Commonwealth entities, during this process. While the speaker and president are technically responsible for setting policies, Albanese's intervention is expected to carry significant weight, potentially leading to long-awaited reforms.
This push for transparency comes amid criticism of the Labor government's record on openness, which has been questioned during its four years in office. Albanese had made transparency a core promise ahead of the 2022 election, and this review represents a step toward addressing those commitments.
The outcome of the review could reshape how lobbyists and other visitors interact with Parliament House, balancing security concerns with the need for public accountability in Australia's political landscape.
