UPDATE: Tasmania’s minority Liberal Premier Jeremy Rockliff has emphasized the urgent need to focus on governance following a failed attempt by the Labor Party to unseat him in a dramatic parliamentary showdown. Just hours ago, a no-confidence motion initiated by Labor leader Dean Winter collapsed, failing to secure the necessary support to shift power.
The July 19, 2023 election resulted in neither the Liberals, holding 14 seats, nor the Labor Party, with 10 seats, achieving the 18 seats needed for a majority. This political impasse has left Tasmania in a state of uncertainty, prompting calls for collaboration rather than conflict.
In a statement made shortly after the parliament’s session, Rockliff declared, “The time to get on with the job, to work together in the best interests of Tasmania, starts right now.” His comments come in the wake of criticism directed at Labor for their inability to form a viable government after over a decade in opposition.
The failed motion reflected deep divisions among the crossbench MPs, which include five Greens and five independents. Several crossbench leaders criticized Winter for his lack of negotiation skills and an unwillingness to compromise, resulting in a motion that lacked the necessary backing. Independent MP Peter George, a former journalist, stated, “Never have I come across an opposition party less ready for government.”
Labor’s performance at the polls was dismal, recording its worst primary vote in over a century and suffering a 3.1 percent swing against it. As the political landscape shifts, the Liberals have made several policy concessions to secure the support of the progressive crossbench, including a ban on greyhound racing and a review of the salmon industry in Tasmania.
Winter accused Rockliff of compromising jobs and doing “anything to stay in power,” while Rockliff defended these concessions as essential adaptations within a minority government framework. The political drama escalated earlier this month when Rockliff faced a no-confidence vote criticizing the state’s rising budget debt, leading to the snap election—Tasmania’s fourth in just seven years.
As the dust settles, eyes are now on how the minority government will navigate this complex political terrain. The immediate focus will be on rebuilding trust and collaboration among political factions to address pressing issues facing Tasmanians.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as the situation unfolds.
