Liberal MP joins Hockey as taxpayer-funded 'tenant' in home owned by treasurer's wife

Federal minister Jamie Briggs is reportedly ‘flatting’ with Joe Hockey in a multi-million dollar Canberra home owned by the treasurer’s wife, allowing her to charge two sets of room nights which are funded by taxpayer dollars.

Politicians may claim up to $271 per night while in Canberra regardless of where they stay.

Mr Hockey has lived in wife Melissa Babbage’s two-million dollar Forrest home since 1997 and has claimed around $1000 per month since 1997, The Daily Telegraph reported.

Mr Briggs, the Assistant Minister for Infrastructure, also reportedly stays at the home, allowing Ms Babbage to charge both men effectively for rent.

Previously, Defence Minister Brendan Nelson was a tenant at the home.

Many politicians reportedly have similar arrangements in Canberra properties, allowing them to claim back expenses from the government.