Democracy group Voice for Indi responds to federal government wanting political bodies to register with electoral watchdog

Special Minister of State Ben Morton wrote to all federal MPs on Monday urging them to dob in so-called third parties, such as Voices groups, that may be covered by the law which passed earlier this month.

"Potentially impacted groups that you may be aware of in your local community include 'voices of (electorate)', '(electorate) independents', 'vote (Name) out', 'Climate 200' and other organisations that are fundraising for or expending electoral expenditure." he wrote.

Voices for Indi convenor Rob Carolane said his group, which has overseen selection of Independent MPs Cathy McGowan and Helen Haines, did not fit the criteria for needing to register.

"It doesn't affect Voices for Indi at all because we don't fund anything to do with the election, with campaigning," he said.

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"All the Independent candidates, Cathy or Helen, have run their own campaigns.

"Our issues have been centred on encouraging people to participate in politics."

Mr Carolane said he had provided candidate selection and governance advice to Voices groups in Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia, but had not spoken about campaign financing.

He said Voices for Indi was registered with Consumer Affairs Victoria and provided it with financial statements.

Dr Haines supported the premise of the new legislation but did not vote for it because of a lack of time given to debate 35 amendments added to the bill.

"Australians deserve to know who is spending money to influence the outcome of an election," she said..

"I already disclose donations well beyond the Australian Electoral Commission thresholds and will fulfil my obligations under these changes.

"Voices for Indi does not fundraise for me or donate to my campaign.

"If the government was serious about donations reform, there are many other measures that could be taken to level the playing field and be upfront with the public.

"This year I introduced a bill to require donations above $14,500 to be disclosed within five days, and donations above $1000 to be disclosed quarterly."

Mr Carolane wants greater donations disclosure rules for the major parties.

"We should have a level playing field, what's good for the goose is good for the gander," he said.

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