Administrative funding

On this page

• Overview
• Funding amounts
• One-off payments
• Repayments

Overview

Administrative funding (formerly known as special assistance funding) is a form of public funding provided under Division 5 of the Electoral Act 1985 (the Act). It is paid as a half-yearly entitlement to eligible registered political parties and independent members of parliament to assist with the reimbursement of administrative expenditure.

Before the amendments introduced by the Electoral (Accountability and Integrity) Amendment Act 2024, public funding provided under Division 5 of the Electoral Act was known as special assistance funding. 

👉 View historical special assistance funding.

Purpose

Registered political parties and independent members of parliament may be eligible to receive administrative funding. This funding is to cover administrative expenses, including:

• Administration, operation or management of the activities of the party or member
• Communication with members of the party on administrative, operational or management matters
• Conferences, seminars, and meetings at which policies are discussed or formulated
• Complying with the Act and auditing of financial accounts
• Expenditure and remuneration of staff
• Training of staff and volunteers
• Equipment or vehicles whilst engaged in the matters referred to above
• Office accommodation for staff and equipment.

Eligibility

• Parties with one or more members in the South Australian Parliament (House of Assembly or Legislative Council).
• Independent members of parliament

Use of funds

• Must not be paid into the state campaign account.
• Must not be used for political or electoral expenditure.

Who is not eligible

• Parties with no members in either the House of Assembly or Legislative Council.

How to apply

1. Complete the administrative expenditure funding application form within 30 days of the end of the period.
2. Return the completed form by email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Funding amounts

Payments are made twice a year (half-yearly) and are indexed annually in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

Payment structure