He famously declared that the “age of entitlement is over” during his stint as Treasurer, but in his new role as Australian Ambassador to the United States, Joe Hockey has caused a stir after using taxpayers’ dollars to fund several boozy events and even pay for babysitters for his children.
According to figures obtained by the Herald Sun, the former treasurer claimed almost AU$70,000 in expenses between July and December last year to cover ‘entertainment’ costs, with the Australian public footing the bill for flowers, booze, childcare services and even Hockey’s laundry.
The News Corp publication reports that Hockey spent a whopping $3,340 on childminding in the six-month period, while he carried out official duties, and also splashed out thousands on a number of parties.
Hockey, 52, is said to have claimed $3,165 to pay for a party in honour of retiring diplomat Dennis Richardson, as well as splurging $2,535 on a reception for Foreign Minister Julie Bishop. Hockey also used his representational funds to pay $4335 hosting dinner for 44 guests, $3072 for flowers and $2660 on alcohol.
Joe Hockey has come under fire, accused of spending $70,000 of taxpayer’s money on booze, breakfast and babysitters in just 6 months. #9Today…
