This was published 6 months ago
Consular assistance to be offered to Payne Haas’ father: Chalmers
By Tony Moore
Gregor Johann Haas, the father of Broncos forward Payne Haas, will be offered Australian consular assistance after being arrested in the Philippines and accused of running drugs of a sufficient quantity to receive the death penalty in Indonesia, federal treasurer Jim Chalmers said on Saturday.
Indonesian authorities said they had been hunting the 46-year-old since last December after police discovered five kilograms of crystal methamphetamine at an undisclosed location.
Chalmers declined to comment on Gregor Haas’ specific charges, but said he would be speaking to federal Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in coming days about Australia’s response to Gregor Haas’ proposed deportation to Indonesia.
He made the comments at Helensvale on the Gold Coast, where he also announced $432 million in federal funds towards the $3.02 billion stage one of the Coomera Connector.
Chalmers said he opposed the death penalty, but said Australia could not interfere.
“Obviously, there is a legal process under way, and we will provide all of the consular assistance that he needs at this time,” Chalmers said.
“The Commonwealth government has the ability to provide that kind of assistance and that will be provided in full.”
Federal treasurer Jim Chalmers, pictured at Helensvale, says Australia will offer consulate assistance to Gregor Johann Haas, the father of Broncos forward Payne Haas, after his arrest in the Philippines on drug-trafficking charges.Credit: Tony Moore
He also paid tribute to Broncos coach Kevin Walters for his comments on Friday night supporting Payne Haas following the team’s Magic Round win over Manly.
“It was not a surprise, but it was very heartening to hear the way the boys [Broncos] have gotten around Payne Haas, the team has got around Payne Haas,” Chalmers said.
“It is no secret he [Payne] has had his fair share of challenges in his life,” he said.
“I am supremely confident that I speak on behalf of the whole, broader Broncos family when I say we are with you, big fella. We appreciate you and our hearts go out to you.
“This must be an incredibly difficult time and I think like a lot of people we would wrap our arms around you.”
There is no suggestion anyone else in the family is involved in the allegations against Gregor Haas.