Crossbenchers Hold Sway in Tasmania’s Hung Parliament

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Tasmania’s hung parliament, following the July 19, 2025, state election, has created a delicate balance of power. The Liberal Party holds 14 seats, the Australian Labor Party (ALP) 10, the Greens five, independents five, and the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers (SFF) one. Premier Jeremy Rockliff’s Liberal government faces a no-confidence motion scheduled for August 19 as both major parties seek support from crossbenchers to form government.

The Liberals require four additional votes to maintain power. They announced plans to phase out funding for greyhound racing by 2029 and to abandon a forestry “wood bank” commitment. Rockliff described these changes as necessary for collaboration with crossbenchers. Independent Peter George, who received the highest primary vote in the Franklin electorate, welcomed these shifts but called for further measures, including a pause on salmon farming expansion. Meanwhile, SFF member Carlo Di Falco opposed the greyhound racing decision and stated he would not support the Liberals unless the policy was reversed.

Labor needs support from eight crossbenchers to form government. The party proposed appointing independent Member of the Legislative Council Ruth Forrest as treasurer, aiming to address Tasmania’s $13 billion state debt. This proposal has been praised by some independents, such as Kristie Johnston, though others have questioned its alignment with Labor’s support for the Macquarie Point stadium project. Greens leader Rosalie Woodruff criticized Labor’s engagement efforts, pointing to the Liberals’ policy changes as pressure for Labor to offer more concessions.

The crossbenchers have expressed mixed responses to the major parties’ pledges. Independent Craig Garland, who has ruled out supporting the Liberals, emphasized the crossbench’s commitment to ensuring the parliament functions effectively. Some independents have voiced frustration over what they describe as insufficient engagement from both major parties.

Voter turnout for the July election was reported at 90.1%, with no seats contested due to tight margins. The election results reflect a shifting political landscape in Tasmania, where crossbench negotiations will determine whether Rockliff retains power or Labor leader Dean Winter forms government.

As the no-confidence motion approaches, negotiations continue behind the scenes. Both major parties aim to secure crossbench support through policy concessions and assurances, highlighting the importance of strategic alliances in Tasmania’s current parliamentary context.