More pressure mounts on minister Sussan Ley

Health Minister Sussan Ley reportedly charged taxpayers for two trips to the Gold Coast for New Year's Eve celebrations.

Minister for Health and Aged Care Sussan Ley

Minister for Health and Aged Care Sussan Ley Source: AAP

Pressure is mounting on federal Health Minister Sussan Ley following revelations of more taxpayer-funded trips to Queensland.

Ms Ley reportedly claimed travel costs to the Gold Coast for New Year's Eve celebrations two years in a row.

On Sunday she apologised and vowed to pay back expenses for a 2015 trip to the Queensland, during which she bought a $795,000 apartment on the Gold Coast.

She admitted it was an "error of judgment" and did not meet the high standards set by the prime minister.

She has asked he Department of Finance to review all of her ministerial travel to the Gold Coast.

Opposition health spokeswoman Catherine King has called on Ms Ley to publicly explain her New Year's Eve jaunts.

"It would seem unusual to have official business on New Year's Eve," she told ABC Radio on Monday.

Cabinet minister Simon Birmingham said extensive travel was part of Ms Ley's responsibilities and does not think she has breached the ministerial code of conduct.

"I don't believe that is the case," he told ABC Radio.

"I think we are expected to be held to a high standard and accountability and transparency, and in this regard Sussan thinks it's appropriate to make some repayments and I appreciate and understand why."



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