Greens plan to cap political donations, block companies
New Zealand's Green Party has announced a plan to reform political donations and lobbying, proposing to cap individual donations at $30,000, ban donations from companies and trusts, and create a public register for professional lobbyists with a stand-down period for former politicians.
Why it matters
These proposed reforms aim to reduce the influence of 'big money' in New Zealand politics, potentially increasing transparency and fairness in the democratic process. If enacted, they could significantly change how political campaigns are funded and how lobbying operates, addressing concerns about undue corporate influence.
The Green Party has announced a plan to cap political donations, block companies from giving money to parties and create a public register of professional lobbyists. The proposed changes, announced today, would be made through two bills that the party says would “get big money and influence out of politics”. Under the changes, individuals would only be able to give a maximum of $30,000 to a party and its candidates in an election cycle. Only individuals could donate, with companies, trusts, and other organisations blocked. Parties would be required to publish the names and postcodes of anyone donating over $1000, down from $6000. "Our democracy should work for everyone, not just the wealthy few,” Greens co-leader Marama Davidson said about donations. “Right now, a handful of very rich and powerful people and corporations can buy access and influence the government for their benefit."
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