One Nation has admitted that it used party funds to construct a $56,000 shed on the private property of James Ashby, a member of the party’s national executive.
Guardian Australia reported that the shed was purchased by Small Batch Brewing Pty Ltd, a company linked to One Nation that has no revenue stream and is not licensed to produce or sell alcohol. Ashby is currently living in the shed on his Yeppoon property while renovations take place.
In an email sent to members, the party’s general manager Kelvin Morton said the national executive had approved an “investment package” to establish a micro distillery. The party would loan Small Batch Brewing the costs for the shed and distilling equipment, which would be placed on land owned by an executive member, in an effort to minimise commercial rent and outgoings.
Small Batch Brewing is privately owned by Ashby, Pauline Hanson and former treasurer Alex Jones, who are equal shareholders. Morton projected licensing revenue of between $400,000 and $500,000 a year, a significant increase from the party’s current average of $105,796. The company will use contract brewer CAVU on the Sunshine Coast to produce its alcohol products.
Ashby has said the business is currently a non‑trading entity and will pursue licensing approval when ready. The party intends to use the venture to strengthen future campaign funding.
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