Politician allowance outrage

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It may be the ultimate stimulus package for homeowners but do not bother applying, only politicians are allowed.

Dozens of federal politicians are claiming an away-from-home allowance while staying in their own homes, and using the money to pay the mortgage.

Both sides of politics today closed ranks to defend the practice and all of their other perks.

Federal members staying in Canberra while parliament is in business are gifted a travel allowance of $215 a night.

Figures for just the first half of last year reveal Resources and Tourism Minister Martin Ferguson stayed in this house while claiming 75 days worth of his away-from-home allowance.

It totalled $14,550. This dwelling is in his wife's name.

Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard claimed 44 days, totalling $8500 to stay at her home in Kingston.

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In 2007, it was revealed that Malcolm Turnbull was using his allowance to pay rent to his wife, Lucy.

"You get paid the same amount regardless of where you stay, whether you're staying in friend's house, in your own house, in your wife's house, whether you're staying at the Park Hyatt," he said at the time.

Labour minister Anthony Albanese clocked up more than $10,000 to stay at his apartment in Barton.

Then there is Minister for Small Business Craig Emerson.

He has admitted charging people to stay at his place, on top of claiming nearly $11,000 when he is there.

Politicians are paid well. Backbenchers get $127,000, all the way up to $330,000 for the prime minister.

On top of these benefits, politicians get free first class round the world airfares, travel to Canberra in business class, as well as keeping the frequent flyer points and a number of free gifts like wine, tickets to art and sporting events and clothing.

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Perhaps the best perks are indexed superannuation for life and job security.

This year, we will fork out $390 million for our parliamentarians on salaries and things like mobile phones, broadband internet, parking and travel allowances.

For the first time in 300 years, the speaker of England's House of Commons resigned today, over the MP perks scandal.

British parliamentarians have been under siege for spending millions on everything from furniture and food to one having his moat cleaned.

Party leaders have apologised saying it might be legal but it is downright wrong and a complete disgrace.

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If you would like to share your thoughts on politician allowances, perks and double dipping directly with them, contact details are below.

Australian Parliament House switchboard (02) 6277 7111.

Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard
(02) 6277 7320 or email julia.gillard.mp@aph.gov.au

Opposition Leader Malcolm Turnbull
(02) 6277 4022 or email malcolm.turnbull.mp@aph.gov.au

Leader of the House Anthony Albanese
(02) 6277 7680 or email a.albanese.mp@aph.gov.au

Deputy Opposition Leader Julie Bishop

(02) 6277 2102 or email julie.bishop.mp@aph.gov.au

Resources and Tourism Minister Martin Ferguson
(02) 6277 7930 or email martin.ferguson.mp@aph.gov.au

Small Business Minister Craig Emerson
(02) 6277 7450, electorate office (07) 3299 5910

Shadow Immigration Minister Dr Sharman Stone
(02) 6277 4477, electorate office (03) 5821 5371

Read more about the UK politician expenses scandal here.