Turnbull offers stimulus from own pocket

CANBERRA: Malcolm Turnbull has surprised many commentators and even his own party room by announcing that he will independently finance yet another stimulus package.

The announcement comes after he was named on the BRW Rich List as being worth $178 million dollars.

The stimulus package will send $8.20 to every Australian, all from Mr Turnbull's pocket.

"This package shows a viable stimulus alternative to the Rudd Government's reckless debt," said Mr Turnbull.

"The only children who will suffer from this payment will be my own."

There is also an effort to court voters by allowing them to claim the bonus in the form of two schooners of cheap domestic beer at their local pub.

Mr Turnbull has also offered a carrot to the Liberal faithful, with an alternative of one glass of local chardonnay on offer.

Mr Turnbull has called on the Prime Minister to support this measure by offering his wife's wealth on top of his own.

Combined, Mr Turnbull and Kevin Rudd's wife, Therese Rein, are estimated to be worth $228 million.

If Ms Rein contributes, the individual payment could be $11 to every person, or two schooners and a midi of beer, or a glass of higher quality chardonnay.

Ms Rein has made no comment as yet.

Caption: Malcolm Turnbull smiling about all his money. Photo: Brisbane Times.