Explained: Why you should be concerned about lobbyist access to govt

The latest threat to government integrity in Queensland comes in the form of preferential access to the inner circle. But why should it matter to you? Jack McKay explains.

It’s the 12-page report that will make life a lot more difficult for the Queensland Labor Government.

And it’s another headache for Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk at a time when she can’t afford any more amid a string of reviews and probes of her administration.

The CCC’s discussion paper lifts the lid on a side of Queensland politics that very few are privy to.

And it raises questions about whether some people are getting the type of access to decision-makers that most ordinary Queenslanders don’t.

Most would agree that no one should be allowed disproportionate access to our government decision makers – even if they do have close political connections. But why should this matter to you?

It matters because lobbyists can play an influential role shaping decisions that impact you and your families’ lives. They can play a role influencing government policy.

And while this report should obviously concern Queenslanders, it should also be of concern to the Premier.

At this stage, she has indicated she is waiting on Professor Peter Coaldrake’s review into the culture of the public service before announcing what actions she will take on lobbying.

But once that report is handed down, she needs to draw a line in the sand, take some decisive steps and make some meaningful reforms.

It’s what Queenslanders would rightly expect.