Gold Coast politics: Assistant Treasurer Stuart Robert pays back nearly $38,000 home internet bill

THE true cost of Assistant Treasurer Stuart Robert’s home internet bill has been revealed with the conclusion of the investigation into the Gold Coast MP’s expenses

THE true cost of Assistant Treasurer Stuart Robert’s home internet bill has been revealed.

Mr Robert today confirmed he had paid back $37,975.

Liberal Member for Fadden Stuart Robert (AAP Image/Mick Tsikas)

The Gold Coast Bulletin last week revealed he would pay back the money, said to be more than $20,000.

Last week it was revealed the then-backbencher’s internet usage at his Nerang home cost $2832 in May while he has charged more than $1000 every month, dating back to 2016.

Mr Robert initially defended the amount, saying he had been forced to use 4G because of poor internet connections at his Nerang home.

Mr Robert said today he had repaid the money in full.

“Regarding internet expenditure - I’ve immediately repayed (sic) a full amount of $37,975 that reflects excess usage changes under the Finance Department’s approved plan,” he tweeted.

Regarding internet expenditure - I‘ve immediately repayed a full amount of $37,975 that reflects excess usage charges under the Finance Department’s approved plan.

— Stuart Robert MP (@stuartrobertmp) October 12, 2018

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It comes as the Department of Finance completed its investigation into his internet usage.

Special Minister of State Alex Hawke confirmed the amount had been repaid voluntarily.

“Whilst the Department of Finance approved the current internet solution, very high excess data charges have understandably caused concern. As Mr Robert acknowledged last week, the costs were much higher than anticipated and higher than what the community expects,” he said in a statement.

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Special Minister of State @AlexHawkeMP statement on matters relating to @stuartrobertmp and his home internet connection #auspol pic.twitter.com/D8psU1e5qb

— Political Alert (@political_alert) October 12, 2018

“Mr Robert has volunteered to immediately repay a full amount that reflects excess usage charges beyond those covered under the plan.

“This action is appropriate and will ensure that Mr Robert continues to meet community expectations and standards.”