Cook MP Billy Gordon faces fresh investigations

New claims of unpaid child support and failure to lodge tax returns have sparked multiple investigations into embattled Cook MP Billy Gordon.


Billy Gordon's rollercoaster ride in parliament has taken yet another twist, with the parliament launching multiple investigations into fresh claims the Cook MP has failed to meet various financial obligations.

The Sunday Mail is reporting that Mr Gordon has failed to lodge a tax return since being elected in 2015. The newspaper also claims to have viewed documents that show he owes more than $16,000 in child support.

The claims run contrary to a statement Mr Gordon made to parliament last year, when he said his child support payments were up to date and paid in full.

Today's revelations that he allegedly owes more than $16,000 could hold dire consequences for Mr Gordon's political career. Penalties for misleading the parliament and committing contempt include a public apology, a monetary fine and eviction from the parliament.

The Sunday Mail today reports: "Documents obtained by The Sunday Mail reveal the former Labor MP has failed to lodge a tax return since being elected in 2015 and owes more than $16,000 in child support.

"Complaints have been lodged with the Australian Taxation Office and the Child Support Agency about Mr Gordon’s approach to financially aiding his two children.

"Speaker Peter Wellington has fast-tracked a secret probe into whether Mr Gordon misled Parliament last year and committed contempt when he professed to have sorted out his taxes and paid outstanding child support."