Tasmania is set for a significant election today, marking a pivotal moment for the island state. Premier Jeremy Rockliff, who has been in office since 2022, faces off against Labor Leader Dean Winter after enduring a vote of no confidence that has shaken his leadership. The polls opened at 8am and will close at 6pm, with counting to commence shortly afterward.
The election comes on the heels of Winter’s parliamentary no-confidence motion, which highlighted concerns over escalating state debt, delays affecting state ferries, and previous proposals to privatise public assets, ultimately questioning Rockliff’s capability to lead. With state debt projected to reach nearly $11 billion by the decade’s end, these issues have cast a shadow over Rockliff’s administration.
Despite the criticism, rather than resigning, Rockliff opted to guide Tasmania through another election, emphasizing that another election was not in the public’s interest, nor was it his preference. Governor Barbara Baker sanctioned the dissolution of parliament for this reason, acknowledging the prevailing public sentiment against additional elections.
Tasmania has seen considerable political instability, enduring four elections within the last seven years. Rockliff called an earlier election last year in a bid to reclaim a majority in parliament, following the defection of two MPs to the crossbench, which resulted in a hung parliament after facing a swing of 12 per cent against his party. However, he managed to secure a governing agreement with members of the Jacqui Lambie Network.
The election’s outcome may have wider implications, particularly regarding the potential impact on Tasmania’s future AFL team, which is slated to enter the league in 2028. Voters will ultimately decide whether to affirm Rockliff’s leadership or to support Winter’s bid for change. With the Liberals having held power since 2014, the no-confidence vote introduces a competitive dynamic that could finally shift the political landscape in Tasmania. Both leaders have significant stakes in today’s election as the electorate considers its options.