Rinehart Jet Flies Hanson and Joyce Over Flooded Queensland

Published: 13 January 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

In a move drawing political attention, One Nation MPs Pauline Hanson and Barnaby Joyce used Gina Rinehart’s private jet to visit flood-affected Queensland communities, highlighting the practical use of private resources by elected officials. The visit, conducted over the weekend, aimed to support towns still recovering from ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, with Joyce noting that using the Rinehart jet saved taxpayers significant funds. Photographs of the pair arriving with grocery bags in Mount Isa and later flying to Julia Creek circulated widely on social media, prompting public discussion about the MPs’ choice of transport.

Joyce, who joined One Nation last month after leaving the Nationals, defended the visit, emphasizing its symbolic importance for affected residents. He stated, “With a lot of these things, you’d be more noted by your absence than your participation.” The trip included meetings with local mayors in northern Queensland, assessing damage and discussing recovery priorities. Joyce underscored the need for direct engagement, contrasting One Nation’s proactive approach with what he described as slower responses by other parties.

The plane, whose registration is linked to the Bank of Utah, belongs to Hancock Prospecting boss Gina Rinehart, who has a history of providing travel for prominent political figures. The use of the Rinehart jet reflects the long-standing support Rinehart has shown Hanson and Joyce, including previous trips with political leaders. While some critics questioned relying on private jets rather than taxpayer-funded transport, Joyce maintained that using the Rinehart jet demonstrated efficiency and fiscal responsibility during a crisis.

Previously, Hanson and her chief of staff, James Ashby, travelled to Florida on Rinehart’s jet in October, attending a high-profile Halloween event at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate. Parliamentary rules require MPs to declare sponsored travel valued over $300, and Hanson’s office updated her senator interests to reflect that prior trip. Lower house members must report within 28 days, and senators within 35, ensuring transparency when private resources are used for official purposes.

Queensland residents have continued facing challenges as heavy rain persisted even after cyclone warnings were lifted. Joyce highlighted that the One Nation visit aimed to listen to locals, understand community concerns, and advocate for effective recovery. “Just like the Labor party and the Liberal party being there to support, One Nation chose to be there to hear back from the locals,” he said, emphasizing the party’s commitment to meaningful engagement during emergencies.

Recent polling by Demos for Capital Brief shows primary support for One Nation has risen above 20%, putting the party alongside the Coalition. Analysts suggest Hanson’s growing popularity, combined with Joyce’s leadership potential, could influence political dynamics in the years leading up to the 2028 election. Some expect Joyce may succeed Hanson as party leader, reinforcing One Nation’s strategy to solidify its public presence.

While debates continue over the ethics of using private jets for political purposes, the MPs framed their actions as a practical solution for timely local engagement. Critics warn that reliance on wealthy benefactors like Rinehart could raise questions about accountability, yet parliamentary transparency rules are designed to ensure that such sponsorships are publicly declared.

Community reactions have been mixed. Some residents appreciated the MPs’ presence and the assessment of flood damage, while others raised concerns about optics and potential conflicts of interest. Social media amplified both perspectives, illustrating the complex intersection between politics, public expectation, and private support.

Ultimately, Hanson and Joyce’s Queensland trip using the Rinehart jet served both as a practical response to disaster and a political statement, demonstrating One Nation’s intent to engage directly with affected communities while highlighting ongoing debates over private influence in public service.

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