Minister sent bill for high data charges

The federal government has sent Stuart Robert a bill for almost $38,000 after it was revealed the Assistant Treasurer racked up more than $1000 a month for data at his Gold Coast home since 2016.

Special Minister of State Alex Hawke said he had been advised the Finance Department signed off on Mr Robert's internet connection.

"Due to the location of his residence, Mr Robert was only able to access mobile broadband services with limited monthly download capabilities," Mr Hawke said in a statement on Friday.

Despite the plan being approved, the high excess data charges had "understandably caused concern", Mr Hawke said.

Mr Robert wrote on Twitter on Friday, after his colleague issued a media release, that he had paid $37,975, which reflected excess usage charges beyond those covered under the plan.

The minister intends to hook up the NBN when it is available in his area.