John Curtin House Limited is a Canberra-based holding company owned by the Australian Labor Party (ALP), named after John Curtin House, a building in Barton, Canberra which was the former headquarters of the Australian Labor Party (ALP). The building is in turn named after the former Labor Prime Minister (1941–1945), John Curtin.
History John Curtin House Limited (JCH) was founded and incorporated by the Australian Labor Party in 1975 and primarily exists as a property investment firm, deriving much of its income from property sub-leases. It also derives income from fees imposed on elected ALP parliamentarians through "software levies."
From 1992 to 2005, John Curtin House Limited was involved in a controversial scheme where the Australian National Audit Office paid above-market rent for premises at Centenary House, at a profit to the Labor Party.
In 2002–2003, John Curtin House gave $1,235,000 to the Australian Labor Party, making it the ALP's single largest donor.
Critics say John Curtin House Limited exists as a front to hide the identities of donors to the Australian Labor Party.
Regulatory compliance John Curtin House Ltd is officially registered as an associated entity with the Australian Electoral Commission.
Electoral Commission reports AEC Compliance Review Report (2019–20) | Australian Electoral Commission Compliance Review Report, pursuant to section 316(2A) of the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918, published November 2022 Associated Entity Annual Returns: John Curtin House Limited | A register of annual returns submitted to the AEC from 1998–99
See also Centenary House Cormack Foundation Political donations in Australia Campaign finance
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