Treasurer Jim Chalmers accused of ‘trespassing’ during live interview

The Treasurer was being grilled on the economy during a live TV cross when he was told that he was trespassing on private property.

Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers was accused of “trespassing” during an interview on Australia’s economic performance ahead of June quarter GDP figures due out on Wednesday.

Speaking to Seven’s Sunrise program on Tuesday, Mr Chalmers was copping a question on whether he was trying to “shift the spotlight” with his recent comments on interest rates “smashing the economy”.

As Sunrise host Natt Bar asked the pointed question, a man off screen said: “You can’t film here, mate. We’re asking you to leave. You can’t film on our premises.”

Visibly distracted by the interruption, the Treasurer answered Ms Barr’s query concisely, saying he thought it was “self-evident that the interest rates rises … are slowing our economy”.

Nat Barr grilled Treasurer Jim Chalmers while he was being interrupted by a man accusing him of trespassing.

“I’ve been making that point for some months,” he said.

The interruptions continued throughout the interview, with the man accusing Mr Chalmers and the crew broadcasting him of “trespassing” as Barr went in for another question.

“I believe you guys are trespassing,” the man said.

“All three of you. You understand that, too, mate? Do you understand that you are trespassing on private property and refusing to leave?

“Yes? OK, can you please pack up your camera and leave? Thank you.”