Launceston Mayor defends $17,000 in personal spending on work credit card
Documents show Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood spent $17,000 on his work credit card over three years on personal items.
Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood has defended credit card spending that included cocktails, Apple AirPods, Tommy Hilfiger shirts and fast food. Over three years, he spent more than $17,000 on his work credit card.
Records show he spent $1,750 on cocktails at a Launceston bar in December 2023. In November 2024, he spent $415 at a Canberra steakhouse.
The bill included almost $200 on steaks, cocktails and a $52 bottle of wine. Other charges included KFC delivered by Uber Eats ($61) and a four-person McDonald's meal ($83.75).
He also bought an espresso martini and Long Island iced tea for $50. During a Japan trip in November 2025, spending reached nearly $2,500.
Garwood said the polo shirts were branded gifts for delegates. The AirPods were purchased for their translation function.
The council's policy limits meal reimbursement to official functions. It requires clear documentation.
- $17,000
- Total spending over three years
- $1,750 in December 2023
- Midnight Rambler cocktails
- $415.08 in November 2024
- Canberra steakhouse charge
- Nearly $2,500 in November 2025
- Japan trip expenses
Why it mattersVoters need to know how elected officials spend public money before October's local elections, and accountability determines whether claims are justified.
AustraliaTasmanian voters will judge Garwood's spending before the local election, and the council is reviewing its expenses policy to tighten governance.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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