Revelations in Senate Estimates today that the Minister himself – Stephen Conroy – suggested long-standing senior Labor figure Mike Kaiser for a $450,000 job to the head of NBN Co, Mr Mike Quigley, are absolutely staggering.

Senator Conroy confirmed under questioning that he put forward Mr Kaiser’s name to Mr Quigley.

When asked who referred Kaiser to NBN Co Conroy said:

“I suggested him (Mr Kaiser) as a person of possible relevant experience.”

Mr Quigley also confirmed that the nearly half million dollar a year position was not advertised.

This raises serious questions about the NBN Co’s employment and management processes, and the level of political involvement and interference by the Rudd Government.

It is not the job of the Minister to suggest potential jobs for Labor mates at NBN Co.