One Nation Claims NZ Citizenship a ‘Back Door’ to Live in Australia

Minister Murray Watt defended the NZ citizenship pathway, rejecting claims it bypasses migration standards and describing the criticism as insulting.

One Nation Senator Malcolm Roberts speaks during Senate Estimates at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, on Oct. 22, 2019. AAP Image/Lukas Coch

One Nation Senator Malcolm Roberts has accused the Albanese government of creating a “back door” pathway into Australia by allowing New Zealand citizens gain citizenship without first becoming permanent residents.

The issue was raised during a recent Senate Estimates hearing, where Roberts questioned Home Affairs officials about the changes introduced by Labor and applied from July 1, 2023.