Citizenship too important for an Abbott captain's call

Greens Leader Richard Di Natale expressed grave concerns today about the Abbott government's moves to revoke Australian citizenship.

"Australians can't afford a captain's call from Tony Abbott on citizenship. There has to be a debate about this," said Senator Di Natale.

"A strong leader understands that the job of the government is to protect the community, not threaten and frighten people.

"Tony Abbott must listen to more sensible voices within his Cabinet and recognise his approach frightens the community and does not make us safer.

"Everyone has a right to a nationality. Any proposal to strip Australians of their citizenship and leave people stateless is completely unacceptable.

"Radicalisation is a serious and complex issue. More fear and more threats from the Abbott government divides our community and will not make us safer."