Peter Dutton, the Opposition Leader and member of Parliament for Dickson, located in Brisbane’s north-west, faced scrutiny after attending a fundraiser in Sydney while Cyclone Alfred was approaching Queensland. Dutton participated in a briefing regarding the cyclone on Tuesday before flying to Sydney for a fundraising dinner at the mansion of billionaire Justin Hemmes that evening. He was accessible for an interview on Brisbane’s radio station 4BC the following morning.
Dutton has since defended his actions, explaining that he adhered to a pre-scheduled itinerary which included meetings and a lunch with an Archbishop in Sydney before attending the fundraising event. He asserted, “I caught the first flight home on Wednesday,” maintaining that he fulfilled his commitments while also criticising Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for allegedly considering calling a federal election amidst recovery efforts from the cyclone. Dutton expressed that the public would expect their Prime Minister to focus on governing instead of campaigning during such crises.
While the Opposition Leader addressed backlash regarding his Sydney trip, he attributed the criticism to the government’s efforts to exploit the situation for political gain, characterising it as inappropriate amidst a natural disaster. Dutton remarked, “That reflects more on them than it does on me,” signalling a clear intent to shift the narrative back towards his responsibilities and choices.
In response to Dutton’s actions, some members of the Labor Party have voiced disapproval, including Senator Murray Watt, who deemed the decision to leave for a fundraiser during a cyclone as disappointing. However, both Albanese and Treasury member Jim Chalmers have taken a more measured approach, indicating that the matter is one that Dutton should clarify for himself. Chalmers stated he would find it disappointing if the claims about Dutton are accurate, but reiterated that it is Dutton’s obligation to explain his choice.
In the face of criticism, Dutton maintains a firm stance on his decision to attend the Sydney fundraiser, suggesting a broader context of political manoeuvring at play. His comments aimed to highlight the contrast between his actions and those of the government, claiming they were more focused on political opportunism than on the immediate support required during a disaster.
While the situation remains contentious, Dutton’s defence illustrates the tightrope politicians often walk between fulfilling obligations and responding to national crises, a dynamic that continues to unfold as Cyclone Alfred impacts Queensland.