In a unanimous judgement, the High Court has upheld its previous rulings that candidates for the federal parliament may not, at the time of their nomination for election, have dual citizenship. The decision applies to seven members of parliament (MPs) -- Joyce in the House of Representatives and six senators. Two senators avoided disqualification by the High Court from holding their seats, but Joyce’s election was voided and he is seeking to return to parliament in the consequent by-election after renouncing his non-Australian citizenship.
The government’s agenda, including the National Energy Guarantee, is likely to stall until its majority is restored.
Liberal-National federal tensions could weaken both parties in the snap November 25 Queensland state poll.
One Nation is a likely beneficiary of right-wing voters’ frustrations with the Turnbull government.
