TASMANIAN Liberal Senator Stephen Parry has brushed off criticism that the high-level appointment of former Lyons MHR Eric Hutchinson to his office was a job for the boys.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Senator Parry in a Senate Estimates hearing on Monday revealed that he had appointed Mr Hutchinson to an adviser role after getting approval from Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull to hire an extra staff member.
Labor Senator Penny Wong implied the job appointment was politically motivated.
"You've appointed a mate who lost his seat to do work in your electorate?” she said.
Senator Parry said Mr Hutchinson was selected for the position due to his parliamentary experience and broad connections within the Tasmanian community.
Mr Hutchinson started the job three weeks ago with a base salary of $127,000 a year.