Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff faces the prospect of losing his position as the state opposition has introduced a motion of no confidence against him, which is anticipated to gain parliamentary support. This motion, tabled by Labor leader Dean Winter, cites several issues, including Rockliff’s fiscal management, the troubled launch of the Spirit of Tasmania vessels, and concerns regarding possible privatisation as grounds for his removal.
Winter expressed a dire prediction, stating, “The direction that the Tasmanian premier is taking our state will send it broke.” In defending his leadership, Rockliff acknowledged the looming vote’s implications, admitting that it “might not end well for me,” especially as the Greens and some independents appear to back the motion.
Rockliff, who has previously labelled Winter “weak as water,” argued that a successful no-confidence vote could trigger another state election just over a year after the last one, which he believes Tasmania does not need. He warned that such political instability would jeopardise investment and business confidence, alongside putting critical services at risk due to unapproved budget spending.
Should the motion pass, Rockliff would have to resign, leading to either a new election or the selection of a new premier. The political discourse has been further complicated by the escalating costs of a stadium project, which have soared to nearly $1 billion, exceeding initial estimates by almost $200 million. The Greens attempted to amend the no-confidence motion to include accusations related to the stadium project, labelling the current legislative process as corrupt, a claim that was ultimately rejected due to Labor’s support for the stadium.
Amid this political turmoil, the Tasmania Devils AFL club has expressed concern that a no-confidence vote followed by another election could jeopardise its future. As the Tasmanian parliament continues its debate on the motion, a vote is expected to take place later today.