Jillian Segal hired former Scott Morrison adviser on $200,000 contract without public tender process
Summary
Jillian Segal, the antisemitism envoy, awarded a $200,000 contract to Society Advisory Pty Ltd, founded by former Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s adviser Yaron Finkelstein, without a public bidding process. Department officials said the company’s expertise in Australian antisemitism issues was unique and necessary for work during a royal commission.Key Facts
- Society Advisory Pty Ltd received a 12-month, $200,000 contract ending in April 2027.
- Yaron Finkelstein, a former adviser to Scott Morrison, leads Society Advisory.
- The contract was awarded without a public tender because the department said only this company had the needed expertise.
- The work involves strategic communications and support related to antisemitism during a royal commission.
- The government’s procurement rules allow single-source contracts when only one provider is suitable.
- Independent Senator David Pocock questioned the limited tender process at a Senate hearing.
- The Department of Home Affairs did market research before the contract but did not approach other firms.
- Jillian Segal declined to comment and is scheduled to appear at Senate estimates hearings.
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