LNP candidate Vivian Lobo referred to AFP over home address

The LNP candidate for a marginal Brisbane seat currently held by Labor has been referred to the Australian Federal Police over concerns he lied about his place of residence.

THE embattled LNP candidate for the ultra-marginal Queensland seat of Lilley has been referred to the Australian Federal Police by the electoral body over concerns he lied about where he actually lives.

LNP candidate for Lilley Vivian Lobo told the Australian Electoral Commission that he and his wife lived at an Everton Park address within the electorate.

LNP candidate for the seat of Lilley Vivian Lobo leaves his home in Windsor. Picture: Lyndon Mechielsen/The Australian

But it was later revealed that house was dilapidated and unfurnished, while Mr Lobo lived in Windsor.

The AEC in a statement on Sunday, confirmed it had looked into the matter.

“Following Mr Lobo’s candidate nomination for the 2022 federal election we have reviewed the declarations made on Mr Lobo’s enrolment and nomination forms,” the AEC stated.

“There is concern as to whether the information provided by him regarding his residential address on these forms is false. The AEC has referred this matter to the AFP for investigation.”

Ballot papers have already been printed so regardless of the outcome of any investigation Mr Lobo’s name will be on voting slips.

A property in Everton Park that is listed as Vivian Lobo’s residence. Picture: Lyndon Mechielsen/The Australian

While it is not uncommon for MPs and candidates to live outside the electorate, it is a criminal offence to make false declarations to the AEC.

If convicted, the offence carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in prison or a $12,600 fine.

Mr Lobo has maintained that he had planned to move into the property after leasing it but campaign commitments and difficulty getting tradies in to make it liveable delayed him doing so.

It remains unclear why Mr Lobo as a renter was responsible for making the property liveable.

The AEC website clearly states people should change their address on the roll only if they have lived somewhere for a month.

Originally published as LNP candidate Vivian Lobo referred to AFP over home address