The Independent Parliamentary Expenses Authority (IPEA) conducted an investigation into a flight taken by former Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton in 2019, where he traveled to Makepeace Island, described as a luxurious location, for a “long lunch” event. The trip, which cost taxpayers $465, involved a flight from Sydney to Maroochydore, followed by a private ferry to the island. Dutton attended the event alongside the then-Queensland Opposition Leader, Deb Frecklington, as a special guest. While the investigation concluded Dutton’s use of funds was within rules, suggesting it was deemed parliamentary business, experts argue for a review of the current expenses system to address public concerns over potential misuse of taxpayer money.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/mar/23/peter-dutton-noosa-river-long-lunch-investigated-expenses-watchdog-ntwnfb