The politicians' gravy train

Travel allowances: between $145 and $425 can be claimed for overnight stays while parliament sits or while on electorate business. Can be claimed for attending party meetings.

Telephone: free telecard; free use of two mobile phones; free home and electorate phones; free phones for staff.

Cars: Free private-plated vehicle with all running and maintenance costs met by the taxpayer in lieu of chauffeur-driven vehicle. Can be used by nominated driver. No signature required for petrol.

Air travel: unlimited first or business-class air travel, provided it is for parliamentary or electorate business. Free travel for spouse or nominee to Canberra and official functions. Free around-the-world trip for politician and spouse per parliamentary term after three years for parliamentary "study".

Superannuation: after serving eight years (if they lose their seat) or 12 years (if they retire), MPs can access their superannuation. They are entitled to half of base salary for life. Increases incrementally to 75% of salary if in parliament for at least 18 years. Up to half can be taken as a lump sum, the rest as annual pension.

Retired members: life-time Gold Travel Pass that allows up to 25 free air, rail or bus trips within Australia for non-commercial visits.

In addition: politicians are provided with free tickets to events such as the Olympic Games and the Grand Prix by big corporations.

From GLW issue 426