<p>We’d all like to fly business class, but most of us end up at the back. </p><p>So, no wonder claims that the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese arranged personal flight upgrades directly with the boss of Qantas has caused a furore.</p><p>Today, Sean Johnson, founder of the Open Politics website and former lobbyist and Liberal party staffer on political gift giving and why it needs to end. </p><p>He explains the exclusive nature of the Qantas Chairman’s Lounge and its implications for political transparency. </p><p>He highlights the potential conflicts of interest that arise when politicians accept such perks.</p><p>Sean Johnson also discusses the broader culture of gift-giving in politics and its impact on public trust. </p><p>He proposes a complete ban on gifts and sponsored travel to mitigate these issues.</p><p>Editor’s note: After this episode was recorded, the prime minister’s office put out a statement denying that Anthony Albanese ever called former Qantas CEO Alan Joyce to ask for flight upgrades.</p><p>Featured: </p><p>Sean Johnson, founder of Open Politics</p><p>Key Topics:</p><ul><li>Anthony Albanese flight upgrades</li><li>Qantas Chairman’s Lounge</li><li>Political gift-giving</li><li>Conflicts of interest in politics</li><li>Public trust in politicians</li><li>Transparency in government</li><li>Political perks and privileges</li><li>Anti-Corruption measures</li><li>Political culture </li></ul>