Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff has declared he will seek an early election if a no-confidence motion against him is successful, describing the move as a “selfish grab for power” that Tasmanians neither want nor can afford.
The Liberal leader faces a no-confidence motion in state parliament, with the Labor opposition, Greens and three crossbench independents appearing to have the numbers to pass the motion.
Speaking on Wednesday morning, Rockliff said he would advise the Lieutenant Governor to call an election unless Labor leader Dean Winter forms government with the Greens following a successful no-confidence vote.
“This will be an election that Tasmanians don’t want and Tasmania cannot afford. Be that on Mr Winter’s head,” Rockliff told media.
“This has been a selfish grab for power of which Tasmanians will look upon very poorly indeed.”
The Liberals have governed in minority since 2014, holding just 14 of 35 seats in the lower house following the March 2024 election.
Labor leader Dean Winter has accused Rockliff of financial mismanagement, pointing to last week’s budget which predicted state debt would more than double to $10.8 billion over four years.
He also criticised the Premier’s handling of the Spirit of Tasmania ferry project and plans to sell state assets.
The political uncertainty has raised concerns about Tasmania’s bid to join the AFL in 2028. The Tasmania Devils have warned their planned AFL entry is at serious risk amid the instability.
The team’s inclusion requires construction of a new stadium at Macquarie Point in Hobart, with costs now estimated at $945 million, up from an original figure of $715 million.
Rockliff on Thursday defended his government’s record, highlighting investments in health, education and community safety and noting Tasmania’s record low unemployment.
“I have a lot more fights in me. We have built a better Tasmania,” he said.
“The only job Mr Winter is interested in is mine and I am not going anywhere.”
The debate on the motion is expected to continue when parliament resumes at 10am.
If passed, convention dictates the Premier should resign, though Rockliff has indicated he may refuse to step down, potentially triggering an election just 15 months after the last poll.
