Ali France cleared of electoral enrolment investigation

The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) has cleared Queensland federal Labor MP Ali France of breaking enrolment laws. The investigation followed allegations by LNP senator James McGrath that France was enrolled to vote at a vacant block of land in the Dickson electorate.

France maintained that her property in Arana Hills had been demolished to rebuild a home for better accessibility, necessitating temporary residence at an investment property in The Gap. The AEC concluded there was no evidence of non-compliance, noting that enrolment provisions allow individuals to remain registered at an address if they have a fixed intention of returning while their primary residence is being renovated or rebuilt.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described France as an “extraordinary Australian” following the decision.