Australia's One Nation party could collect up to $633,000 from people seeking to run for it in Victoria's November state election, according to Guardian Australia, sparking accusations of a "cash grab."

Applicants paid a $150 non-refundable application fee and a $60 annual membership fee. About 220 of the 1,209 who expressed interest reached the final stage. Preselected candidates were told to contribute $5,500 of their own money to run, even in seats considered unwinnable.

Former councillors, mayors and deputy mayors described a "pay-to-play" process of 15-minute video interviews and non-disclosure agreements. A complaint letter said applicants felt "used, lied to, misled and gaslit." One Nation said the fees cover checks and are standard across parties.

A political consultant who worked with the party called the process a "money-spinning exercise." The party says all fees went into its Victorian campaign account under electoral rules. The controversy raises fresh questions about candidate selection and party finance.