Comedian Dave Hughes has announced he will no longer participate as a speaker at Victorian Liberal Party events following concerns over political donation laws. Hughes, who has supported the Liberals in the lead-up to the November Victorian state election, said the party decided hosting him on the bill could violate campaign donation limits.
Hughes, known for previously identifying as a lifelong Labor voter, became a vocal critic of the party after the federal budget introduced significant changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax concessions in May. Since then, he has campaigned for the Liberals without accepting payment for his appearances.
His recent engagements for the party included headlining the western Victoria region campaign launch in Geelong on August 16, as well as two fundraisers: a $2,500-per-head dinner on September 10 for the Bentleigh candidate, Tynan Putt, and a $30 "Pub Talk" event with Williamstown candidate Paul Lindemann on September 16.
In a video shared on social media on Tuesday, Hughes explained that a complaint to the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) prompted the decision. He stated that while he declined payment for his speaking roles, the value of his services might exceed the allowable donation limit and therefore be treated as a political donation under state law.
On social media platform X, Hughes suggested the complaint was filed by Victorian Labor, but a senior Labor source denied direct involvement. Reports indicate the complaint was lodged by a Labor supporter.
Victoria’s political donation laws include restrictions on in-kind donations, which encompass services offered for free or below market value. Such contributions are subject to the same caps as monetary donations, currently set at $5,190 per donor. The VEC’s donation disclosure register records both cash and in-kind contributions, noting examples such as Greens member and comedian Tom Ballard’s $1,200 service at a party fundraiser in March.
Hughes argued that while Labor benefits from strong union support and significant funding—receiving $775,264 in donations this financial year compared to the Liberals’ $173,222—many Liberal candidates lack comparable financial backing and are facing struggles similar to those of other Victorians. He expressed his desire to assist the Liberal candidates in overcoming these challenges.
A Liberal Party spokesperson affirmed the party’s commitment to operating within the electoral act’s requirements. The spokesperson did not comment directly on the specific complaint but emphasized the party’s compliance with campaign finance regulations.