The Rudd Government in Australia has taken significant steps to encourage consumers to buy green when it comes to their vehicle choice – however, are they practising what they preach?
According to a report in the Canberra Times, ministerial staffers racked up more than $420,000 in car bills covered by taxpayers with 38 receiving a car as part of their remuneration packages since December 1, 2007. Two of these staff members were among the 12 employed in the Prime Minister’s office, which were provided with a vehicle.
Special Minister of State John Faulkner responded to a question on notice from Liberal senator Michael Ronaldson by stating that some employees had more than one vehicle as they were provided with interim vehicles when the car they ordered was sourced.
The most popular cars were the Holden Calais luxury sports car and the Ford Territory 4WD – they made up 20 of the cars provided.
A further five were either Holden Commodore SV6 or Commodore SS vehicles – both sports cars with eight cylinders.
Only four members of staff took hybrid cars.
We want to know if you think government staff members should be leading by example with green cars? Leave a comment with your thoughts.
