Tasmania’s state election has officially wrapped up, with Governor Barbara Baker signing off on the returned electoral writs at Government House.
Electoral Commissioner Andrew Hawkey handed over the completed writs to the Governor yesterday, signalling the end of the constitutional process that began with the proroguing of parliament on June 11.
The writs, listing the names of members elected across Tasmania’s five divisions, were first issued on June 18.
“As His Majesty the King’s representative in Tasmania, the Governor’s main duty is to exercise the constitutional powers of the Head of State,” a spokesperson for the Governor said.
“She plays an important role in elections, by proroguing parliament and dissolving the House of Assembly and issuing the writs for an election.”
Once the writs are issued to the electoral commissioner, the clock starts ticking towards polling day, setting the rules for candidate nominations and voting procedures.
Government House said news on which party will form the next government is on the way.
“Further updates regarding the formation of government will be provided in due course,” the spokesperson said.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff said yesterday he plans to meet with the Governor today or, at the latest, tomorrow to request his government be recommissioned.
