Independent MP Kristie Johnston has thrown her support behind Labor’s no-confidence motion against Premier Jeremy Rockliff, citing serious concerns about budget blowouts and failed project delivery.
Johnston, who represents the Hobart seat of Clark, confirmed her decision after Labor leader Dean Winter tabled the motion this morning.
“I can indicate that I will be supporting that motion,” Johnston said.
“Tasmanians expect an accountable, transparent government and one that acts with the best interests of Tasmanians. This is not what the premier is doing at the moment.”
The crossbench MP has been a consistent critic of the Liberal government, backing every no-confidence motion brought against it this term.
Johnston said she had two major issues with the government through budget mismanagement and the ongoing failure to deliver key projects on time and on budget.
“What we have seen delivered last week is a budget that is an absolute disaster,” she said. “It is completely irresponsible of the government to be putting that forward.”
She pointed to the new Spirit of Tasmania berth, which has blown out from $93 million to $493 million, as a worrying sign for other big-ticket projects.
“My community are particularly concerned what that will mean for the stadium, which is already very divisive at $975 million,” Johnston said.
“Imagine what that will do, a cost blowout of that magnitude, to the stadium.”
She also dismissed any suggestion she might back down if the premier pushes the idea that a successful no-confidence vote could lead to an election.
“I would not be intimidated by the premier with the threat of an election,” she said.
