Watchdog Questions Evasion on $6 Million Golf Club Grant

A Senate inquiry into the Major and Local Infrastructure Program has faced scrutiny after public servants from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's office were unable to provide clear answers regarding a $6 million grant to the Marrickville Golf Club. The grant, awarded to a club located near a property owned by Albanese, is part of a program facing allegations of favoring safe and marginal Labor electorates.

The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has indicated that certain aspects of the scheme have attracted its interest. The program, established in September 2025, allowed only government-invited organizations to apply. Greens deputy leader Steph Hodgins-May described this closed application process as "astonishing," noting that many organizations were excluded.

Independent MP Helen Haines, who is currently hospitalized, had previously been a vocal critic of the $6 million grant. Following an alleged attack on Ms. Haines, Prime Minister Albanese publicly praised her integrity. However, reports emerged of his office circulating a "dirt file" on Haines, a move seen as an attempt to undermine her credibility.

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The inquiry follows a September 2026 report that highlighted serious integrity concerns with the grant program. The report indicated that approximately three-quarters of the funding was allocated to electorates held by Labor, with 45 electorates receiving no funding.

Officials from the Department of Infrastructure, Lisa Lauter and Jacinta McDonald, testified that the program's non-competitive nature did not guarantee approval. They stated that applicants had to meet specific criteria demonstrating eligibility, merit, and value for money. The department maintained it did not select applicants, projects, locations, or funding amounts.

During the inquiry, representatives from the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet were frequently unable to clarify who approved the Prime Minister's April 2025 announcement of the golf club's funding. Nationals senator Bridget McKenzie expressed frustration with the number of questions taken on notice, stating, "It's hard not to be concerned."

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A government brief on the Marrickville Golf Club project detailed plans for bar and alfresco dining upgrades, a new pro shop, a "dog walking station," and stormwater harvesting. The brief stated the project aimed to enhance the community environment, increase revenue-earning capacity for the club, attract more members and visitors, and improve community access to open space.

Liberal senator Paul Scarr also questioned the selection of witnesses, arguing that the committee was denied access to individuals with essential knowledge. Neither Prime Minister Albanese nor Infrastructure Minister Catherine King accepted invitations to appear before the inquiry.

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