Labor MP’s primary residence ‘vacant block of land’
Robyn Wuth |
The Labor MP who unseated former opposition leader Peter Dutton at the 2025 election has been referred to the electoral watchdog over claims she is enrolled to vote at a vacant block of land.
Queensland Liberal senator James McGrath has asked the Australian Electoral Commission to launch an immediate investigation into Ali France, the member for Dickson, over alleged breaches of the Electoral Act.
“It has come to light that Ms France is currently enrolled to vote at a vacant block of land as her principal residence, which has sat empty for a significant period of time,” Senator McGrath said in a statement.
“Under AEC guidelines and regulations this would suggest a clear breach of the Act and therefore should be investigated with the upmost (sic) seriousness and in a timely manner.
“A Labor MP being enrolled at a vacant block of land is as dodgy as they come. Simple as that.”
An AEC spokesperson confirmed the commission had received Senator McGrath’s correspondence on Wednesday morning.
“The AEC treats the integrity of the electoral roll and the application of legislation as matters of the highest importance,” the spokesperson told AAP.
“The AEC investigates all matters raised with us to confirm that Commonwealth electoral laws have been adhered to.”
Ms France said she had made “all the appropriate declarations, including my register of members’ interests”.
“I will, of course, comply completely with any request for information from the Australian Electoral Commission,” she told AAP.
Ms France snatched Dickson from then opposition leader Mr Dutton at the last federal poll in May 2025, earning a “giant killer” tag after winning the seat on her third attempt.
Her register of interests lists her main residence in Arana Hills in Brisbane’s northwest and an investment property in nearby The Gap.
No findings have been made against Ms France, and the allegation remains under examination.
AAP