Agriculture Minister Barnaby Joyce has defended charging taxpayers more than $5300 for attending three NRL games last year, declaring he will not pay back the funds because the trips were a legitimate part of his job.
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On Wednesday, Fairfax Media reported that Mr Joyce, who was given free tickets to watch a State of Origin game and two NRL finals in corporate boxes, claimed flights to Sydney, Comcars and overnight travel allowances to the value of $4615.
It was revealed on Wednesday that Mr Joyce also charged taxpayers $741 for a family member to fly to Sydney and join him at the NRL grand final on September 30.
Mr Joyce, who had previously billed taxpayers for travel to two weddings, described his travel in his expense claims as ''Shadow Minister - Official Business''.
Mr Joyce's spokeswoman said the then Coalition spokesman for regional development, local government and water was a guest of Westpac on June 13 and the Australian Rugby League Commission on September 14 and 30.
Mr Joyce told ABC Radio on Wednesday he would not repay the money for the trips.
''The only reason you go to them is because you're invited [as] an official guest. The only reason you're an official guest is because you're a politician. By reason [of] you being there, they talk to you about their business.''
When asked why he claimed for family travel, he said he had probably taken his wife or one of his daughters because he did not get to see his family often.
Letters - Page 14
