Tasmania Sees Rise of Minority Government as Voters Reject Major Parties

Tasmania recently held its second state election in 16 months, the shortest gap between state polls in Australia since Queensland in 1957. Some voters made their fifth trip to the ballot box in less than two years. State Labor failed to secure a significant vote share, with just 26% of the vote counted. The election was triggered by a no-confidence motion in the Liberal minority government due to budget management issues and proposed asset sales.

Labor's budget repair proposals were modest, and their stance against asset sales was weakened by plans to off-load the state's share in the proposed Marinus Link Bass Strait connector. The Liberals shifted their position to promise a government-owned insurance company, drawing criticism but resonating with small businesses. The state saw a swing of about 3% from Labor to the Liberals, with a record number of 44 independents gaining ground.

The Tasmanian Nationals and Shooters, Fishers and Farmers party were in contention for seats, highlighting the complexity of the Hare-Clark proportional representation system. With declining major party support, minority governments are becoming the norm in Tasmania. The state remains in a state of uncertainty, with potential alliances and challenges ahead.

According to the source: The Guardian.