Australian Electoral Commission to investigate Teal MP Monique Ryan volunteers over alleged Chinese links

Teal MP Monique Ryan has referred allegations of foreign interference by her own volunteers — reportedly linked to the Chinese Communist Party — to the electoral watchdog.

A video posted on social media reportedly showed two volunteers saying they were told to vote for the MP by the president of the Hubei Association Ji Jianmin. The video has since been deleted.

The Association has been accused of working with the United Front Department, an opaque arm of the Chinese Communist Party that seeks to advance Beijing’s interests abroad.

Dr Ryan said she had personally contacted authorities after the questions about possible foreign interference.

“Just because I don’t want there to be any concerns about this, and in the interests of full transparency, I’ve contacted the AEC and the Department of Parliamentary Services,” she told Sky News, adding that she had supplied details about her relationship with the volunteers.

“I think transparency is important, and people do need to have faith in the democratic process.”

In a statement, the electoral commission said it was aware of the reports and the comments from shadow Home Affairs minister James Paterson, who said the allegations were very serious and should be examined.

“The AEC will review this matter in the same way that we review all matters that are raised with us. This includes referral for consideration by the Electoral Integrity Assurance Taskforce,” it said.

“It is important to note that Australia has a secret ballot. Nobody knows how another individual votes. Your vote is your choice.

“We have also published advice to voters about influence in Australian elections, including a general reminder for all voters that every voter is responsible for making their own decision about how to vote and who to support at this Federal election.”

Some 20 per cent of the Kooyong’s constituents are Chinese Australians and Dr Ryan said she was grateful for the support the community had offered her over the past three years and that she had worked hard to represent them.

“I’m not sure about the interpretation of that video whether it’s accurate, but certainly no one’s been compelled to volunteer for me. But I’m grateful for those people who have come out to volunteer on my campaign,” she said.

Dr Ryan said she had not asked for Mr Ji’s endorsement.

“I’ve never had a one on one meeting with him, and I’ve never asked for his support in any in any direct way,” she said.

“The challenge is that you want to engage with all parts of the community. And I think it’s really important that Australian politicians engage with Chinese Australian constituents.”