Independent MP, Andrew Wilkie and former senator Derryn Hinch claim some politicians are pocketing generous payments intended to fund travel and local electoral duties.
Federal politicians receive several payments in addition to their basic income, including an electorate allowance to help them conduct their day-to-day duties.
The payment is made directly into their bank account, they are not required to declare how they spend it and if by the end of the year they have not spent all of it they are able to pocket the reminder as additional taxable income.