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Tuesday, 14 June 2011
Page: 6039

Zentai, Mr Charles

(Question No. 283)

Ms Julie Bishop asked the Minister for Justice, in writing, on 21 March 2011:

(1) What total cost has the Government incurred to date (including departmental personal time and cost) in seeking to extradite Mr Charles Zentai to the Republic of Hungary, and what total estimated cost will be incurred in appealing the decision of the Hon. Justice Neil McKerracher.

Mr Brendan O'Connor: The answer to the honourable member's question is as follows:

(1) As at 20 April 2011, the approximate amount of costs billed to the Commonwealth relating to litigation in the matter of Mr Zentai’s extradition is $505,400 (including GST and disbursement). This figure includes costs of approximately $247,000 incurred in earlier proceedings instituted by Mr Zentai challenging various aspects of the extradition process, including the constitutionality of the Extradition Act 1988. Mr Zentai was unsuccessful in those proceedings. The Australia Central Authroity for extradition in the Attorney-General’s Department does not maintain records of the time particular officers spend on particular matters.

As at 20 April 2011, the approximate amount of costs billed to the Commonwealth in the appeal proceedings is $105,400.