Polls have officially closed in Tasmania’s elections, marking a crucial moment for the last remaining Liberal state government in Australia as they strive to retain power.
The election was called early by Liberal Premier Jeremy Rockliff following the defection of two MPs – John Tucker and Lara Alexander – who left the party ten months ago, thrusting the government into minority rule.
With the number of MPs in the state set to increase from 25 to 35, predictions indicate a likely hung parliament even after today’s vote. Rockliff urged Tasmanians to grant his party a majority, but it’s anticipated that a definitive outcome may take several days to materialize.
Rockliff asserts that the polls indicate the Liberal party as the sole contender capable of securing a majority. “What the polls show is the Liberal party is the only party within striking distance of majority government,” he stated.
In contrast, Opposition Leader Rebecca White contends that after a decade of Liberal governance, the moment calls for change. “It’s a choice between a tired, decade-old Liberal government that is focused on the wrong priorities, or a Labor government prepared to take urgent action to alleviate the cost of living, revamp the health system, and address affordable housing,” she remarked.
The election campaign spotlighted issues such as the cost of living, housing, and the state’s healthcare system. Additionally, a contentious topic was the proposed new stadium in Hobart, a condition for Tasmania’s acquisition of a new AFL team. Despite the unveiling of the team’s name and colors this week, concerns over the stadium’s $715 million budget and the feasibility of meeting it have stirred debate. White insisted that regardless of the election outcome, the AFL deal would need renegotiation. Rockliff, however, remains steadfast in support of the project, asserting that the private sector would back any cost overruns.
