PM Albanese proposes limiting MPs' family travel to economy class on local routes, ending nationwide perks after backlash.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is proposing to restrict MPs' family travel perks after public backlash over taxpayer-funded trips for spouses and families to events like grand finals and holidays. Following Attorney-General Michelle Rowland repaying about $10,000 for violating guidelines and Sports Minister Anika Wells facing scrutiny, Albanese recommended downgrading family flights from business to economy class and limiting travel to routes between Canberra and an MP’s local electorate, effectively ending nationwide entitlements. Spouses of senior ministers may still claim flights for duties-related events, with exceptions considered for new parents and MPs with dependents. The recommendations, sent to the Independent Parliamentary Expenses Authority and the remuneration tribunal, will be reviewed in early January.