49. Do candidates have to report on their election campaign finances?

Electoral Legislation Amendment (Electoral Reform) Act 2025, Schedule 2. https://www.aec.gov.au/news/disclosure-legislative-changes.htm.

The the Electoral Legislation Amendment (Electoral Reform) Act 2025, which takes effect from 1 July 2026, introduces timely disclosure requirements for donations for a federal purpose over the disclosure threshold, with the time for reporting by a recipient depending on the proximity to an election. A donation disclosure notice must be completed by political parties, members of Parliament, candidates, significant third parties, associated entities, nominated entities and third parties within 7 days during the election period and within 24 hours during the expedited notice period. Donors must complete a donation disclosure notice within 7 days during an election between the issue of writ and seven days after polling day. Outside of an election, donations must be reported by all entities and donors by the 21st day of the following month after the donation.