Bill Shorten’s Julianne Stewart speechwriter paid $300,000 a year by Services Australia, Senate estimates told

Julianne Stewart has secured two-year contract despite agency employing 200 media and communication staff

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A professional speechwriter contracted to work with the government services minister, Bill Shorten, is expected to cost taxpayers $600,000 over two years, despite Services Australia employing 200 media and communication staff.

Appearing in Senate estimates on Monday, Services Australia confirmed Julianne Stewart has secured a government contract worth about $300,000 a year, which is in its second year. The arrangement came to light after the tender was published on the government's AusTender website.

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