4Simplified outline of this Act

4 Simplified outline of this Act

This Act creates a framework for the use of public resources by members of Parliament in connection with parliamentary business.

Members are paid remuneration determined by the Remuneration Tribunal. The Tribunal also determines the rates of travel allowances for domestic travel. Expenses and other allowances payable to members, and other public resources to be provided, are determined by the regulations. The Tribunal makes recommendations on these matters.

Members have obligations in relation to the use of public resources, including the requirement to use those resources for the dominant purpose of conducting parliamentary business and the requirement to ensure value for money. Contravention of a member’s obligations may result in a penalty of 25% of the value of the public resources.

IPEA may give a ruling determining that conduct relating to a travel expense or travel allowance was or was not in accordance with this Act. A member may be protected from incurring a debt if a ruling determines that particular conduct was in accordance with this Act or if IPEA gives incorrect personal advice.

This Act also provides for an injury compensation scheme and for other resources to be provided to members.

Some resources may also be provided to former members and the estates of persons who die while a member.