Tasmania’s Fate on Hold as Governor Weighs Options Following No-Confidence Vote

Premier Rockliff met Governor Baker on June 10, seeking an early election after losing a no-confidence vote 5 days ago.

Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff and Minister for Education, Children and Youth Roger Jaensch speak to media at Parliament Square in Hobart, Tasmania, Sep. 27, 2023. AAP Image/Ethan James

Tasmanian Governor Barbara Baker has postponed her decision on an early election until the end of the week, weighing the options after Premier Jeremy Rockliff’s urgent request.

The announcement came swiftly after Rockliff met with Baker at Government House on the evening of June 10, formally requesting an early election.

This urgent visit came just five days after the premier lost a critical no-confidence vote, proposed by Dean Winter, the state’s Labor Party leader, plunging the state into political uncertainty.

“Following their conversation, Her Excellency is now taking the time necessary to give due consideration to all available options,” Government House Official Secretary David Hughes said.

He added that the premier and governor would meet again by the end of the week, with further statements to follow.