Tasmania’s Liberal government has been reinstated following a period of political uncertainty after a snap election that did not result in a majority for either major party. Premier Jeremy Rockliff met with Governor Barbara Baker on Wednesday to formally request his minority government’s continuation. Rockliff stated that he anticipates securing the confidence of the lower house, and confirmed his intention to serve a full four-year term. The governor, acknowledging the convention of incumbency, decided to reappoint Rockliff’s government. Rockliff expressed his commitment to collaboration and pragmatism, planning to build on the previous parliament’s accomplishments for the benefit of all Tasmanians. Governor Baker’s decision was based on the need for stability and for parliamentary confidence to be determined within the parliament. Rockliff and his cabinet are expected to be sworn in next week, with state parliament returning on August 19. There are ongoing negotiations between the Labor leader, Dean Winter, and crossbenchers, though a deal with the Greens is not on the table. The final composition of Tasmania’s parliament includes 14 Liberals, 10 Labor members, five Greens, one Shooters, Fishers and Farmers MP, and five independents. The most recent election was triggered after Rockliff lost a no-confidence vote and is the state’s second election in 16 months. The controversy over a proposed $1 billion stadium in Hobart remains a contentious issue.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/aug/06/jeremy-rockliff-premier-tasmania
