Fadden MP Stuart Robert resigns after ‘serious concerns’ over parliament absence

Queensland MP Stuart Robert has resigned, triggering a by-election in his Gold Coast electorate, after coming under fire for skipping parliament while still collecting his $260,000 a year salary.

Fadden MP and former Coalition cabinet minister Stuart Robert has denied any wrongdoing in relation to his connection to a consultant firm under inquiry over government contracts it secured. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Gary Ramage

Fadden MP Stuart Robert has officially handed in his resignation, allowing a by-election to be held, after coming under fire for skipping parliament while still collecting his $260,000 a year salary.

Speaker Milton Dick confirmed this morning he had received a letter of resignation from Mr Robert, who has served as the Fadden MP since 2007.

“The Speaker is now considering possible dates for the by-election for the electoral division of Fadden, Queensland and will make an announcement in due course,” A spokesman for Mr Dick said.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese criticised Mr Robert on Thursday, accusing him of “not turning up to work” while still collecting a paycheck.

Mr Robert missed three days of parliament last week, including the day the budget was handed down, after he announced he intended to resign earlier this month.

As a shadow minister, but not in the shadow cabinet, Mr Robert is paid $260,000 a year.