Diamonds are a property developer’s best friends in Queensland

“Diamond” membership will circumvent Queensland’s ban on property developer donations.

Queensland opposition leader Deb Frecklington.. Picture: Matt Harris.

Queensland’s Liberal National Party will introduce a new “diamond” class of membership to circumvent the state’s ban on property developer political donations.

The party’s state convention has today backed a resolution to create the new “diamond membership” class, which allows property developers to pay extra for LNP membership and get free entry to fundraising events such as cocktail parties.

Annastacia Palaszczuk’s Labor government introduced a ban last year banning property developers from donating money to local and state government candidates, politicians, and parties.

Former LNP president Gary Spence – who is classed as a property developer under the laws – unsuccessfully challenged the legislation in the High Court this year.

LNP acting president Dave Hutchinson told the party’s state council that “diamond membership” would carry all the rights and privileges of a member, and allow free registration for state convention, state council meetings, free admission to gala dinners, cocktail receptions, and other fundraisers.

“For those wondering what this is all about, this is a class of membership that’s allowed under current state legislation that effectively prohibits property developers from participating in our party,” Mr Hutchinson said.