Pauline Hanson, leader of the One Nation party, has publicly boasted about receiving a new private plane from mining magnate Gina Rinehart, alongside $2 million in donations from close associates. In a social media video, Hanson expressed her delight with the Cirrus SR22 G7 aircraft, which retails for approximately US$1.5 million (A$2.1 million). The video, posted on Wednesday, targeted the Guardian, with Hanson addressing a journalist directly and celebrating the acquisition.
Details of the Donation
A spokesperson for Hancock Prospecting confirmed that the aircraft was gifted to One Nation through one of Rinehart's companies, not from Rinehart personally. Hanson thanked two senior executives: geologist Ian Plimer, known for climate denialism, and Adam Giles, former Northern Territory chief minister and head of Hancock Agriculture. Each donated $500,000. Additionally, Angus and Sarah Aitken contributed $1 million, which Hanson described as an investment in herself and other One Nation candidates.
Criticism from Political Figures
Treasurer Jim Chalmers criticized the relationship, calling Hanson a "wholly owned subsidiary of Gina Rinehart." He accused One Nation of voting in line with Rinehart's interests rather than those of Australian workers. Greens representative Steph Hodgins-May argued that the case highlights the need to remove big money from politics, stating that a private jet worth the median Australian home price comes with strings attached to billionaire donors.
Hanson's Response
In the video, Hanson dismissed criticism, emphasizing that the plane will allow her to visit more regional towns. She also mentioned the party's need for additional fundraising before new electoral laws take effect in December. The plane, she said, is not battery-operated and will not include a welcome to country ceremony upon landing. Giles praised Hanson as an "iron gate-keeper of Australia's values," while Plimer associated One Nation with hope.
The donations and gifts have raised concerns about transparency and influence, particularly given Hanson's history of failing to declare free flights on Rinehart's private jet. The controversy underscores ongoing debates about political donations and the role of wealthy donors in Australian politics.
