Media Release – Support For Disclosure of Ministerial Diaries

Independent Member for Nelson Meg Webb’s motion calling for mandatory disclosure of Ministerial Diaries was supported in the Legislative Council today.

Ms Webb said she welcomed the Rockliff Liberal Government’s commitment to publish Ministerial Diaries on a quarterly basis, starting next month.

“While this is a welcome development, the proof will be in the pudding.” Ms Webb said.

“Since the Government neglected to consult on the model it has apparently adopted, it remains to be seen whether or not it will be best practice.

“It would be a great shame to see another example of an integrity measure introduced in this State with the mediocre aspiration of pegging Tasmania to the middle of the pack at best.”

Ms Webb said regular disclosure of Ministerial diaries is a fundamental integrity measure.

“It should not be designed to provide window-dressing only – it must be about providing genuine transparency.”

Ms Webb said she was pleased to see progress towards a stronger and more effective integrity framework for Tasmania.

“I will take every opportunity to advocate for integrity measures which improve community confidence and trust in the governance of our State.”

Notice of Motion:

Ms Webb to move, That the Legislative Council:

1. Recognises that the regular publication of the Members of Cabinets’ official diaries provides an important accountability mechanism, by improving transparency and strengthening public confidence in government decision-making processes;

2. Notes that the regular and mandated disclosure of official ministerial diaries, detailing meetings with stakeholders, third-parties and registered lobbyists, is established practice across a range of parliaments including NSW, ACT, and Queensland;

3. Requests the Tasmanian government undertakes to introduce mandated requirements for the regular and routine disclosure of all Ministerial and Cabinet Secretary official diaries, detailing scheduled meetings, and their purpose, with stakeholders and organisations, including third parties and lobbyists; and when developing this disclosure regime to also;

(a) ensure the process is informed by best practice examples of mandatory disclosure of ministerial diary requirements established in other jurisdictions, including examples of oversight and compliance requirements; and

(b) develop and publicly consult on a proposed Tasmanian mandatory disclosure of ministerial diaries scheme.

See more of Meg’s media releases.