Citizenship expert says Senator’s claim is “inconceivable”

An expert in Italian citizenship says Matt Canavan’s story is “inconceivable”.

The Coalition Senator became the latest MP embroiled in a citizenship scandal after claiming his mother applied for him to become an Italian citizen without his knowledge.

But the immigration specialist – improbably named Joe Italiano – told Tom Elliott the story doesn’t wash for an adult.

“You’ve got to make a physical appearance and produce certain documents,” Mr Italiano said.

“It’s inconceivable someone else could fill out documents on his behalf.

“It doesn’t make sense to me.”

Click PLAY above for the full interview

Senator Canavan quit Cabinet on Tuesday after his dual citizenship was revealed.

Section 44 of the constitution requires MPs to have only Australian citizenship.

Greens representatives Scott Ludlam and Larissa Waters recently resigned after becoming aware of their dual status.