Register on the Federal Lobbyists Register
Third-party lobbyists contacting Commonwealth officials must register + observe the Lobbying Code.
Who must comply
Third-party lobbyists (in-house lobbyists exempt but covered by separate ministerial code).
What triggers it
Acting on behalf of a client to influence federal government decisions.
When due
Before contact; quarterly update.
Evidence required
Register entry; client list; FITS separate registration if foreign principal.
Max penalty
Removal from register; reputational + access consequences
Summary
The Lobbying Code of Conduct + Register of Lobbyists (administered by AG's Department) require third-party lobbyists to register before contacting federal government officials. Quarterly updates; bans for breaches.
Topics
Related obligations
- CWLTHRegister under Foreign Influence Transparency Scheme (FITS)Persons undertaking activities on behalf of foreign principals in Australia must register with the AG's Department.
- CWLTHRespond to FOI requests within 30 days (Cwlth agencies + ministers)FOI Act 1982 — Commonwealth agencies + ministers must respond to access requests within 30 days.
- CWLTHBeneficial ownership transparency (Tranche 3 — under consultation)Proposed beneficial ownership register for unlisted companies and trusts — consultation through 2024-2025; commencement TBD.
- CWLTHPolitical donation disclosure thresholds (federal + state)Federal disclosure threshold $17,300+ (2024-25). State thresholds + caps vary.
- VICComply with Vic FOI Act 1982 (state)Victorian agencies + ministers respond to state FOI requests within 30 days.
Frequently asked questions
- Who must comply with on the Federal Lobbyists Register?
- Third-party lobbyists (in-house lobbyists exempt but covered by separate ministerial code).
- What triggers on the Federal Lobbyists Register?
- Acting on behalf of a client to influence federal government decisions.
- When is on the Federal Lobbyists Register due?
- Before contact; quarterly update.
- What is the maximum penalty for on the Federal Lobbyists Register?
- Removal from register; reputational + access consequences
- What evidence is required for on the Federal Lobbyists Register?
- Register entry; client list; FITS separate registration if foreign principal.
Source: https://www.lobbyists.ag.gov.au. Rules Mate is not a law firm. Always verify against the live regulator source before acting.