People News

Aussies actually pay Paris Hilton to come to Australia

By April MacIntyre Jan 1, 2009, 16:48 GMT

American heiress Paris Hilton, nearly 28, was paid by Australian party promoters to show up for an evening. American socialite Paris Hilton arrives at Melbourne Airport in Melbourne, Australia, 29 December 2008. Hilton is in Australia to host the world's first online 3D party on New Year's Eve at Sydney nightspot. EPA/JOE CASTRO

American socialite Paris Hilton arrives at Melbourne Airport in Melbourne, Australia, 29 December 2008. Hilton is in Australia to host the world's first online 3D party on New Year's Eve at Sydney nightspot. EPA/JOE CASTROHilton was in Sydney to host a New Year's dance party.Some have criticized Hilton for dropping a small fortune shopping while there. Australian newspapers claim the heiress spent 5,560 Australian dollars (3,844 US dollars) in a fast spree. The amount spent is certainly not her personal best.Local charities allegedly accused her of excess, but Hilton's raison d'être is conspicuous consumption. She is known the world over for purchasing little dogs, pink Bentleys, couture clothes and size 11 shoes."I'm in Australia, I think it's important to help out, you know, the economy out here, everywhere in the world," she told Australian news reporters."And what's wrong with doing a little shopping? It's New Year's, I need a New Year's dress." Acting Prime Minister Julia Gillard, allegedly was in favor of the heiress stimulating their economy. "I heard that a politician said that," Hilton reportedly said. "I thought that was very sweet and it's true." Hilton will be paid a reported 100,000 Australian dollars for her appearance.