Josh Frydenberg has shrugged off concerns over a promotional flyer featuring Guide Dogs Victoria chief executive, claiming the furore was “confected outrage” designed to take him down.
In a pamphlet distributed to Kooyong residents, a puppy holding Karen Hayes outlined why she was supporting the Treasurer in his re-election campaign.
“Time and time again, Josh has shown his genuine care for Guide Dogs Victoria and the people with low vision and bxjmtzywlindness we serve,” Ms Hayes is quoted as saying.
In a statement, Guide Dogs Victoria said it was aware of the promotional material but stressed the charity’s board had no prior knowledge before its distribution.
“The board has launched an internal investigation and requested that this material be immediately removed from circulation,” the organisation said.
Under Australian charity and not-for-profit regulations, charities must not “promote or oppose a political party or a candidate for political office” or risk its registration.
Speaking to reporters in Western Sydney, Mr Frydenberg was asked if he was concerned the re-election material breached Australian law.
“You see, my political opponents are running around spreading lies about community involvement. And the reality is, I've been delivering for my community in a way they never have, and never could,” the Treasurer said.
“It’s an inconvenient truth for the fake independents that I'm receiving public recognition from community organisations that I’ve helped substantially over more than a decade.
“It‘s confected outrage.”
The Treasurer is under threat in his inner-city Melbourne seat from independent candidate Monique Ryan.
Mr Frydenberg was also asked to clarify if taxpayer funds were used to print and distribute the pamphlets and declined to do so.
“We have a number of methods and means of putting information out to the electorate and this is important information about my community involvement,” he responded.
