# Controversial Aussie coffee stand at COP31 sees 45 minute queues – but sparks $32K political row for ‘wasting’ taxpayers’ money

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/controversial-aussie-coffee-stand-at-cop31-sees-45-minute-queues-but-sparks-32k-political-row-for-wasting-taxpayers-money/
- Published: 2026-11-13T11:45:39+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-13T12:04:00+00:00
- Original publisher: Daily Mail (publisher lean: Right)
- Original article: https://www.dailymail.com/news/article-16289213/Controversial-Aussie-coffee-stand-COP31-sees-45-minute-queues-sparks-32K-political-row-wasting-taxpayers-money.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490
- Topics: Government, Politics, World

## Key points

- Australia allocated $32,100 for free coffee at COP31.
- Delegates have reportedly queued up to 45 minutes.
- Turnbull backs the stand as effective promotion.

## Summary

Australia’s decision to spend $32,100 on free coffee at COP31 has prompted a political dispute, with the Coalition accusing Anthony Albanese’s government of wasting taxpayers’ money. Former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull defended the stand as effective promotion of Australian coffee and a way to draw delegates to the pavilion.

About 1,800 drinks have reportedly been served since the summit opened on Monday, with queues reaching 45 minutes. The event brings together representatives from more than 190 countries; the spending row also includes an estimated $2.2 million for accommodation and hospitality for 192 Australian officials. Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen accused the Coalition of hypocrisy, saying some contested expenses began under Angus Taylor’s time as energy minister.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.