Liberal candidate Scott Yung and party officials are under scrutiny for their handling of campaign finances during the 2019 state election. Yung utilized endorsements from Chinese celebrities and free work from a public relations firm, raising questions about compliance with electoral guidelines. The campaign also cancelled a fundraising dinner featuring former Prime Minister Tony Abbott without explanation.
Yung secured endorsements from Chinese actors who typically charge thousands of dollars for similar services. The public relations agency Covert provided free work for Yung’s campaign, including Chinese-language social media ads referencing his connections to former Prime Minister John Howard. While Yung claimed there was no need to disclose these endorsements and unpaid work, the NSW Electoral Commission advises candidates to disclose voluntary work in certain circumstances.
Questions about compliance with electoral laws have been raised, especially regarding the value of the voluntary services provided. The Liberal party confirms an ongoing audit of campaign disclosures. Despite concerns, Liberal senator Andrew Bragg believes that the party and Yung have likely complied with the laws.
With a close margin in the seat of Kogarah, where almost one-third of residents have Chinese ancestry, the handling of campaign finances could impact the upcoming election. Labor member Jerome Laxale currently holds the seat with a slim margin. The Coalition campaign and Yung have not responded to inquiries about the cancelled fundraiser with Abbott. All eyes are on Yung and the Liberal party as they navigate allegations of financial impropriety in the lead-up to the election.
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