One Nation is set to establish its national headquarters in a multimillion-dollar Brisbane office purchased by Australia's richest woman, Gina Rinehart. The minor party will lease the three-story building in Spring Hill at commercial rates, according to One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce.
Gina Rinehart's Company Buys Brisbane Office for One Nation
Rinehart's property investment company, Hanrine, finalised the purchase of the office building last week. Queensland property titles confirm the sale, which was first reported by The Australian newspaper. The property is valued at approximately $8 million, a significant increase from its last sale price of $2.4 million in 2003.
The building features two floors with 10 parking spaces on the lower level and a large top-floor balcony with sweeping city views. It will serve as One Nation's national head office, with the party paying market rent to Rinehart's company.
No Conflict of Interest, Says Barnaby Joyce
Barnaby Joyce has dismissed any suggestions of a conflict of interest or special treatment. "I don't live in her pocket," Joyce told News24. "It's her building, it's her lease. We're leasing it off her at commercial rates."
Joyce emphasised that the party would pay for the office space from its own funds. "If we've got an individual who's got money, they should be allowed to spend it as they see fit," he added. A spokesperson for Rinehart's Hancock Prospecting stated that the company holds a range of commercial properties and that this building is one of them.
Key Takeaways
- One Nation will lease a Brisbane office bought by Gina Rinehart's company, Hanrine.
- The property is valued at around $8 million and was purchased last week.
- Barnaby Joyce insists the party will pay market rent, with no conflict of interest.
- The office will serve as One Nation's national headquarters.
Property Details and Market Context
The office building, located in the Brisbane suburb of Spring Hill, offers convenient access to the city and ample parking. Its purchase by Rinehart's company reflects continued investment in commercial real estate by major players. The table below compares the property's sale history and features.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Spring Hill, Brisbane |
| Purchase Price | Approximately $8 million |
| Last Sale Price (2003) | $2.4 million |
| Size | Three stories, two floors, 10 parking spaces |
| Notable Feature | Large top-floor balcony with city views |
Political Implications and Reactions
The arrangement has raised eyebrows among political observers, given Rinehart's prominent role in Australian business and her known support for conservative causes. However, One Nation maintains that the lease is strictly commercial. The party's move to a permanent national headquarters signals its intention to professionalise operations ahead of future elections.
Critics argue that the relationship between One Nation and Rinehart could influence policy, but Joyce's statements aim to preempt such concerns. The party has not disclosed the exact terms of the lease, but Joyce insists it is at market rate.
FAQ
Who bought the Brisbane office for One Nation?
Gina Rinehart's property investment company, Hanrine, purchased the office building.
How much is the Brisbane office worth?
The property is valued at approximately $8 million, according to The Australian.
Will One Nation pay market rent?
Yes, Barnaby Joyce stated that the party will pay commercial rates to lease the space.
As One Nation settles into its new headquarters, the focus will remain on whether this arrangement affects the party's independence. For now, Joyce and One Nation assert that it is purely a business transaction.