Labor MP Ali France Defends Electoral Registration to Empty Block of Land

The federal Labor MP who unseated Peter Dutton has defended her electoral registration to an empty block of land, saying she plans to move back into the address once her home is rebuilt. Dickson MP Ali France has been referred to the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) by an opposition senator with claims she is registered to vote at a vacant suburban block in her north Brisbane electorate. A spokesperson for Ms France, who is an amputee, said she was in the process of rebuilding a more accessible home on the site. She had lived at the property for the past five years, the spokesperson said. Ms France's residential address is listed within her electorate according to her registrable interests, while she also owns an investment property in the neighbouring electorate of Ryan. Ms France said she had followed the correct electoral requirements. "I will of course comply completely with any request for information from the Australian Electoral Commission." Claims of electoral breach Ms France was referred to the Australian Electoral Commission by Queensland Coalition senator James McGrath, who said he had requested an immediate investigation into her enrolment. He said the block of land had sat empty for a "significant period of time". "Under AEC guidelines and regulations this would suggest a clear breach of the act and therefore should be investigated with the upmost seriousness and in a timely manner," he said in a statement. The AEC website states: "If you are absent from your enrolled address for a period of time but have an intention to return to that address to live, you do not need to update your enrolment. "This includes if you intend to rebuild your house in the event of a disaster." The Australian Electoral Commission confirmed it had received the referral letter from Mr McGrath and said it was investigating the matter. "The AEC investigates all matters raised with us to confirm that Commonwealth electoral laws have been adhered to," a spokesperson said. "The AEC treats the integrity of the electoral roll and the application of legislation as matters of the highest importance."