The O’Farrell Government is set to pass election funding laws which override basic democratic freedoms and ensure only the independently wealthy can control the NSW Parliament – despite a parliamentary committee stating the laws may be unconstitutional.

“Barry O’Farrell’s election funding laws mean democracy in NSW will never be the same again,” Opposition Leader John Robertson said today.

“These laws will Americanise State politics – ensuring only independently wealthy people can control the political process in NSW.

“Under Barry O’Farrell’s laws, a wealthy person can run a $1 million campaign advocating on behalf of Liberal Party issues – yet a peak body such as the NSW Council of Social Services, Unions NSW or the Christian Lobby will be paralysed in their ability to campaign.

“Running a political campaign is simply beyond the financial means of most Australians.

“Banning donations from community organisations, unions, disability advocacy groups and peak bodies will squash the ability of average Australians to take part in our political system.”

Shadow Special Minister of State, Steve Whan said the O’Farrell Government’s legislation removed the basic democratic principle of freedom of political association from NSW.

“A Parliamentary committee into the proposed electoral funding changes has already found the laws restrict the democratic right of individuals to engage in the political process,” Mr Whan said.

“The O’Farrell Government is seeking to impinge upon an individual’s right to freedom of political association to protect its own future – by ensuring only wealthy individuals can control political campaigns in NSW.

“Allowing wealthy individuals to spend more than $1 million running a political campaign but banning the Nature Conservation Council, Unions NSW or Christian Lobby from doing the same thing will stamp out the voices of politically engaged, average Australians.

“Barry O’Farrell is seeking to restrict the basic democratic freedoms of NSW residents to ensure his own political future remains free from voices who oppose his policies on job cuts, logging and cuts to foster carer payments.”