In light of a travel controversy, McKenzie reflects on her flight upgrade statements while supporting Dutton’s travel arrangements with billionaire Gina Rinehart

In a notable turn of events within Australian politics, Coalition frontbencher Bridget McKenzie has publicly acknowledged a misstep regarding her own flight upgrade history while defending Peter Dutton’s use of Gina Rinehart’s private jet. This revelation comes amidst a broader controversy involving Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his alleged acceptance of complimentary upgrades from Qantas.

During an appearance on ABC’s RN Breakfast, Senator McKenzie expressed regret for her previous claims, where she emphatically stated she had never received a flight upgrade. “I think it was wrong of me to be so emphatic earlier this week,” she remarked, adding that she is now undertaking an audit of her travel records to ensure transparency. This admission has prompted her and other parliamentarians to review their travel logs closely, as they strive to comply with parliamentary rules requiring the declaration of any potential conflicts of interest within 28 days of receipt.

The scrutiny intensified after reports surfaced about Albanese’s travel practices, prompting calls for an independent inquiry into how airlines may influence politicians. As this controversy unfolds, McKenzie finds herself in a precarious position, balancing her defence of Dutton’s travel choices while grappling with her own accountability.

When questioned about potential repercussions for her failure to update her register of interests, McKenzie drew a distinction between her situation and that of the Prime Minister. “The difference between myself and the Prime Minister is that the Prime Minister was the minister for transport. He was actually in charge of regulating the aviation sector,” she explained, attempting to shift some focus from her own shortcomings.

McKenzie’s comments come against the backdrop of her past accountability, as she resigned from her cabinet role during the 2020 sports rorts affair, an experience she cited to illustrate her understanding of the importance of addressing conflicts of interest.

As the political landscape shifts in response to this travel controversy, the scrutiny over travel practices and the transparency of politicians is set to escalate, highlighting the need for integrity in public office.