WA Election: ABC refused access to One Nation function despite other media attending
Updated
The ABC has been refused entry to One Nation's Western Australian election night headquarters after being told it was a private function.
That is despite journalists from other media organisations being allowed into the Melville bowling club, where party leader Pauline Hanson addressed supporters on Saturday night.
The ABC was initially told by a staffer it was not authorised and refused an orange access wristband.
Senator Hanson's advisor James Ashby then confirmed the decision by text, saying it was a private function.
"I'm sure you'll respect the party's decision," Mr Ashby said.
He said One Nation Senator Brian Burston agreed.
"Senator Burston has also confirmed he's not interested in admitting any other media than those already approved," Mr Ashby said.
Other non-ABC journalists said they had arrived without being "approved" and were allowed in.
Mr Ashby said the ABC could take Channel Seven's feed but no individual ABC reporters could go in.
"Thanks for your understanding, but your cameras and crew are not authorised in," he said.
Topics: elections, minor-parties, wa
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