Reported at www.theguardian.com: Australia’s major political parties are increasingly hosting expensive fundraising dinners as a federal election approaches, with some tickets costing up to $110,000.

Business leaders, who often receive these exclusive invitations, are concerned about the perceived hypocrisy and lack of transparency in how political donations are disclosed.

Critics argue that these events exemplify “cash-for-access” practices, damaging public faith in democracy while new donation laws are set to be implemented, but not until 2026.