The prime minister has ordered the secretary of the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet to investigate the travel claims surrounding Health Minister Sussan Ley, who has stepped aside from her duties.
Malcolm Turnbull said today the secretary would thoroughly investigate the travel claims.
“(Ms Ley) has assured me that she will promptly provide all information and assistance sought by the secretary for the purpose of this investigation,” the prime minister said.
“The minister has agreed to stand aside without ministerial pay until this investigation is completed by the secretary.
“I have asked Senator the Honourable Arthur Sinodinos to act as minister for health and aged care, and minister for sport.”
Mr Turnbull said he expected the highest standard from his ministers in all aspects of their conduct, and especially the spending of public money.
“Australians expect the government to deal with these serious matters very thoroughly and in accordance with the Statement of Ministerial Standards,” he said.
Ms Ley allegedly made a number of taxpayer-funded trips to the Gold Coast but participated in events that weren’t work related, including New Year’s Eve celebrations two years in a row, and on one occasion even purchasing a $795,000 apartment.
She told reporters today that she was confident no rules had been broken and she wouldn’t be asked to step down permanently.
