The Treasurer

Who is the Treasurer?

The Treasury portfolio is one of only two portfolios that have existed since Federation. For practical purposes, the Treasurer is always a Member of the House of Representatives because the Constitution states that financial legislation (‘money bills’) can only be proposed in the House.

What does the Treasurer do?

The Treasurer is the main spokesperson for the Government’s financial decisions. The Treasurer not only considers the business of his or her own portfolio, but also the financial consequences of all government policies. In the House, the Treasurer’s most important task is the preparation and presentation of the Government’s annual Budget. The Treasurer is also in charge of taxation policy and administers the Australian Taxation Office.

Who was Australia’s first Treasurer?

Australia’s first Treasurer was Sir George Turner (Protectionist, Balaclava, Victoria).