November 3, 2016
Agriculture Minister Leanne Donaldson quit Cabinet on Thursday evening after revelations the Queensland ALP had paid an outstanding rates bill of almost $8000.
Ms Donaldson apologised to Bundaberg City Council over the outstanding bill, and said she would pay back the money to the ALP next week.
“This morning I met the Premier and Deputy Premier to discuss the issue of my unpaid property rates and I was asked to advise if there were any other issues of which they should be aware,” she said in a statement on Thursday night.
“Following Question Time I became aware that my vehicle registration had not been paid by the due date last week and I took immediate steps to rectify this issue.
“However, last week I had driven the vehicle on a date after the registration had expired.
“Clearly this does not meet the high standards set by the Premier for all members of the government.
“I therefore informed the Premier tonight of my decision to resign as a Minister.
“I wish to take this opportunity to thank departmental staff for the work that they have done, and the support they have given me during my time as Minister.”
