Mining magnate Gina Rinehart has provided significant financial support to One Nation leader Pauline Hanson, including funding her flights from London to Sicily to attend a luxury fashion show. Hanson's parliamentary register of interests revealed that Rinehart covered the costs of these flights, while Hanson paid for her own accommodation and daily expenses.
This support follows a series of substantial donations from Rinehart's associates to One Nation. In April 2026, Rinehart's company gifted a Cirrus G7 private plane to Hanson, valued at over $1 million. Additionally, stockbroker Angus Aitken and his wife, Sarah, donated $1 million, and Adam Giles and Ian Plimer each contributed $500,000, totaling over $3 million in donations.
The financial backing has raised concerns about the influence of wealthy donors on political parties. Labor's national president, Wayne Swan, criticized One Nation's reliance on billionaire support, suggesting it could lead to policies favoring the wealthy.
Hanson has defended the support, stating she considers Rinehart a friend and is grateful for her assistance. She emphasized that no taxpayer money was used for the trips and that she paid for her own accommodation and daily expenses.
The controversy highlights ongoing debates about transparency and the role of private funding in Australian politics. As the 2028 federal election approaches, the extent of Rinehart's influence on One Nation and its policies may become a focal point in political discussions.