Tasmanian Government Faces Confidence Challenge

Opposition Vows New Move Against Rockliff Ministry

Just days after being recommissioned, the Liberal government in Tasmania is facing the prospect of another no-confidence motion, with Opposition Leader Dean Winter indicating a challenge is imminent.

Governor’s Decision

Governor Barbara Baker has officially recommissioned Premier Jeremy Rockliff‘s government. Her reasoning for the decision has been published on the official Government House website, stating she accepted Rockliff‘s assurance that he could command the confidence of the lower house.

The Premier and his cabinet are scheduled to be sworn in next week, ahead of the state parliament’s return on August 19.

Winter’s Stance

Dean Winter criticized the recent history of Tasmanian parliaments, stating, “This last parliament failed to go for longer than 15 months … under the Liberals we have seen three early elections in a row.” He added, “That’s got to change, which means we need to change the way parliament works, and we need to change the government.”

Following a successful no-confidence motion moved by Winter, Tasmanians went to the polls last month. The election resulted in no change to the seat count for the major parties: the Liberals secured 14 seats and Labor 10. A majority in Tasmania requires 18 seats.

“Tasmanians can be assured any motion we move will not result in another election. There will be a motion moved, whether it’s by us or an independent, of no confidence in the Liberals and confidence in the Labor government.”

—Dean Winter, Opposition Leader

Political Deadlock Continues

Winter admitted he had been actively pursuing negotiations with crossbench members to form a government, confirming a rejection of any deal with the Greens. A significant hurdle in Tasmanian politics remains the shared support of both the Liberals and Labor for a new $1 billion stadium in Hobart, a project opposed by the Greens and some independent members.

Political instability in Australia is a recurring theme, with minority governments often struggling to maintain confidence. For instance, a lack of clear majority can lead to frequent elections, as seen in parts of Australia’s parliamentary history, impacting policy delivery and public trust.