The ‘Oscars for political nerds’ or a threat to democracy? Grab a ticket, it’s Canberra’s budget fundraiser season

They’re dismissed as boring, little more than a “selfie” opportunity for economy nerds – or even labelled a threat to democracy. But as budget week approaches, the major parties are once again spruiking fundraising dinners and drinks for their most loyal followers – and slugging them for thousands of dollars. A seat at Labor’s budget night dinner on Tuesday, 12 May, with the prime minister, treasurer and senior ministers, costs $5,500, up from $5,000 last year. …