The scandal over Bronwyn Bishop's use of a chartered helicopter has led to an overhaul of federal MP expenses.
The government on Wednesday accepted 36 recommendations of a review, which calls for a new system of "work expenses" for parliamentarians that will replace the entitlements scheme.
The rules will be based on the principle of "value for money" when MPs make travel decisions.
The report said the government should provide guidance and training to MPs which "specifies that use of charter transport must constitute value for money, and in particular that, in the absence of compelling reasons, helicopters cannot be chartered to cover short distances".
However, chartered aircraft may be required at times "especially in large, rural or remote electorates or in disaster zones, where there is no viable scheduled alternative".
The report said the government should provide guidance and training to MPs which "specifies that use of charter transport must constitute value for money, and in particular that, in the absence of compelling reasons, helicopters cannot be chartered to cover short distances".
However, chartered aircraft may be required at times "especially in large, rural or remote electorates or in disaster zones, where there is no viable scheduled alternative".
Recommended changes to MP entitlements:
- A better system than the one now, which is not simple, effective and clear.
- Entitlements and benefits redefined as "work expenses".
- Remuneration Tribunal determines conditions and amounts for travel expenses, travel, vehicle and electorate allowances.
- More explicit definition of what makes up "parliamentary business".
- Value for money overarching principle of travel decisions.
- Abolish additional $10 per night travelling allowance for spouses.
- Re-examine taxpayer-funded shuttle service that operates in sitting weeks.
- Limit three return fares to dependent child aged up to 18 years.
- Reduce provision for post-retirement travel to Canberra from five trips a year to three.
- A third, staffed electorate office for the Big Six electorates.
- Helicopters cannot be chartered to cover short distances without compelling reasons.
(Source: Independent Parliamentary Entitlements System).
