Queensland’s parliamentary estimates process is facing renewed scrutiny as the Opposition criticizes a lack of important reform,despite promises made by the current government.
The estimates process, a key mechanism for parliamentary oversight of government spending and performance, has long been a point of contention, particularly for non-government parties. Historically, governments in power have been criticized for not enacting significant changes to a system frequently enough perceived as favoring the executive.
Upon taking office, the Liberal National Party (LNP) pledged to reform the estimates process, which Premier David Crisafulli had previously characterized as “broken,” a “farce,” and a “protection racket for underperforming ministers by partisan chairs.” Crisafulli had advocated for a review of the process, increased opportunities for non-government MPs to question ministers, and the appointment of non-government MPs to chair the proceedings.
This year, a notable change has been the appointment of Speaker Pat weir and deputy Speaker Jon Krause to chair the committee proceedings, rather than the usual heads of the relevant parliamentary committees. This shift has created a unique situation for non-government members, who now find themselves critiquing a process they themselves oversaw for a decade.
Following a media release on Monday that highlighted the perceived absence of change in the estimates process, Opposition Leader Steven miles accused Premier Crisafulli of “rigging” and “fixing” the system. Miles has afterward been referred to the ethics committee.
