Senators caught in a citizenship muddle

Three senators in as many weeks have been caught out by a section of the constitution that bars dual citizens from sitting in parliament.

THE DUAL CITIZEN SENATORS WHO'VE FALLEN FOUL OF THE CONSTITUTION

* Matt Canavan (Qld, LNP)

Was born in Australia, but became a dual citizen in 2007 after his mother successfully applied for Italian citizenship. He and the federal government are seeking advice as to whether it was valid under Italian law given it was done without his knowledge or consent. He has stood aside from cabinet but will keep his seat in the Senate while the matter is dealt with by the High Court.

* Larissa Waters (Qld, Greens)

Born in Canada but migrated to Australia when she was 11 months old. While she never returned to the country, she automatically became a Canadian citizen at birth. The law was changed a week later. She resigned from the Senate after conceding she was constitutionally ineligible to stand in parliament.

* Scott Ludlam (WA, Greens)

Born in New Zealand but naturalised in Australia as a teenager - which he wrongly assumed meant the end of his Kiwi citizenship. He was notified by an "interested community member" about his dilemma and resigned after confirming his status and ineligibility.


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Source: AAP



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