Labor has delivered a stunning performance in Tasmania, claiming four of the state’s five federal seats and ensuring women will represent the island in the nation’s capital.
Labor wrestled Bass and Braddon from Liberal hands while turning Lyons from an ultra-marginal to safe seat.
Former Tasmanian Labor leader Rebecca White secured Lyons with over 43% of first preference votes, far ahead of Liberal candidate Susie Bower on nearly 26%.
White has promised to “work hard, listen well and do my best” to represent Tasmania in the national parliament.
In Bass, Jess Teesdale defeated incumbent Liberal MP Bridget Archer with a swing of more than 11% to Labor.
Anne Urquhart claimed Braddon with nearly 40% of first preferences, representing a 17% swing.
Labor’s Julie Collins has retained her seat of Franklin, meaning four Labor women will represent Tasmania in Canberra.
Independent Andrew Wilkie secured a sixth consecutive term in Clark with 49% of first preferences, appearing to record his second-highest primary vote.
