Overview
- Senior office holders lose uncapped family travel entitlements under the Remuneration Tribunal’s recommendations.
- MPs would be allowed one return economy fare per year to a location outside Canberra, deducted from their annual family reunion travel limit, after the tribunal rejected a total ban.
- Spouses may claim up to three invited-official-function return fares a year, with senior ministers eligible for a further three for portfolio-linked invitations, and partners must fly economy unless accompanying the MP.
- The Albanese government said it accepts the recommendations in principle and will consult other parties while drafting regulatory changes, with the Special Minister of State retaining exceptional‑circumstances powers.
- The tribunal noted most MPs did not use Australia-wide reunion travel in 2024–25 and advised members to seek IPEA guidance before booking under the new rules.