Independent MLC Tania Rattray has accepted Premier Jeremy Rockliff’s invitation to become Leader for the Government in Tasmania’s Legislative Council.
The long-serving McIntyre representative, who has served in the upper house for more than two decades, will lead government legislation through the Legislative Council while maintaining her independent status.
Premier Rockliff described the appointment as a move to enhance collaboration in the new Parliament
“Ms Rattray has been representing regional Northern Tasmania for more than 20 years and is one of the longest serving members of Tasmania’s house of review,” Rockliff said.
“We are enhancing collaboration as part of the new Parliament, with Ms Rattray’s appointment marking a step forward in achieving that.”
Rattray said she was honoured to take on the important role, saying that Tasmanians are seeking collaborative approaches from their elected representatives.
“The people of Tasmania are asking for sensible approaches to work collaboratively, and that’s exactly what I am committed to delivering in accepting this position,” Rattray said.
She said that her appointment, while unusual, is not unprecedented in Tasmanian politics.
“Over my time serving as a Member of Parliament I have witnessed a number of changes in roles that have not been traditionally held by a person from a certain political persuasion and an appointment of this nature is not unprecedented.”
“I am focused on the role I can play, contributing to the efficient functioning of the Legislative Council and the Parliament in the best interests of all Tasmanians.”
Rattray will continue representing her electorate with input into legislative review while taking on the additional responsibility of shepherding government bills through the upper house.
Liberal Member for Prosser, Kerry Vincent, has been appointed Deputy Leader of Government Business in the Legislative Council.
