Question Time

Luxe Haus

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Leader of the Opposition) (14:19): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking a question of the Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment regarding tourism.

Leave granted.

The Hon. K.J. MAHER: On 17 October 2019, the minister stated in this chamber that:

I have not visited or stayed at the property known as the Luxe Haus, and I have not received any gifts or complimentary stays.

More recently, this week, on 29 October, the minister was asked if he had provided any assistance to convicted sex offender and owner of Luxe Haus, Corey Ahlburg, to obtain a visa to travel to China. The minister responded, 'I have no recollection of providing Mr Ahlburg any assistance at all.' My questions to the minister are:

1. Has the minister ever visited or stayed at the property when it was known as Ora Luxury Villa or when it existed under any other name?

2. Now that the minister has had 48 hours to check, will the minister advise whether he played any role in securing a Chinese visa for convicted sex offender Corey Ahlburg, including sending letters of support or introduction so that a convicted sex offender would be allowed to travel to China?

The Hon. D.W. RIDGWAY (Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment) (14:20): I thank the honourable member for his question. In the first instance around the Luxe Haus or Ora or whatever the address is at Moana, the answer is no. In relation to letters of support for Mr Ahlburg, no.