Senior public servants have been told to disclose “exclusive memberships” to invitation-only airline lounges, amid intense speculation over the influence Qantas wields through its prestigious Chairman’s Lounge.
The Australian Public Service Commission (APSC), a government agency within the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet which oversees public servants, has updated its guidance for agency heads relating to gifts and benefits, with the bulk of the changes relating to airline lounges and memberships.