MEMBER for Mildura Ali Cupper will join other regional MPs in donating her 2.5 per cent pay increase to a local charity.
The Victorian Independent Remuneration Tribunal, set up to independently decide pay levels for MPs, announced on June 25 a pay hike that would take the base salary of politicians to $186,973.
“Wages are a delicate issue, particularly in the midst of a pandemic,” Ms Cupper told Sunraysia Daily on Friday.
“I understand why there is increased scrutiny surrounding wages for public sector workers at this time.
“I will be donating my wage increase to a local charity, as many local businesses and workers are struggling due to circumstances beyond their control.
“What is important is that those fortunate enough to see a wage increase during this time commit to spending locally, supporting our businesses and charities throughout the coming year.”
Northern Victoria Upper House MP Tim Quilty said politicians deserved pay rises, but admitted it was a “bad look” coming out of another COVID-19 lockdown.
The pay rise will boost Premier Daniel Andrews’ annual wage by about $11,000 to $452,000 — the largest of any Australian premier.
Ministers and Opposition Leader Michael O’Brien will now receive about $343,000.
Member for Murray Plains Peter Walsh said a Swan Hill charity would benefit from his pay rise.
“Last year I donated these fund to St Vinnies Swan Hill and will do the same this financial year,” he said.
Mr Quilty said he would donate “at least” half his $4674 rise to an undecided charity.
“If I was to justify it, it would be because it was my salary, paid to me for doing my job,” he said.
“I like getting paid, and I have no in-principle objection to getting pay rises.
“Victorian MPs are amongst the lowest-paid MPs in Australia. We are still on pretty good money compared to most ordinary Victorians.”
Northern Victoria Liberal MP Wendy Lovell said she would also donate.
“I am more than happy to donate the pay rise to local charities in the electorate,” she said.
Labor’s Mark Gepp said he often made personal donations to a number of charities in the community, irrespective of a pay rise.
“That is a matter for other MPs to decide,” Mr Gepp said about encouraging MPs to donate.
Justice Party’s Tania Maxwell said the salary increase wasn’t appropriate during the ongoing pandemic when businesses faced uncertainty and significant financial pressure.
“I have always given from my salary to a range of charities and community organisations and will continue to do so,” she said.
Labor’s Jaclyn Symes did not respond before deadline.
