Tasmania Liberals Gain Seats Fall Short Majority in Snap Election

Tasmania's snap election resulted in a hung parliament with the Liberal Party, led by Premier Jeremy Rockliff, winning 14 seats—more than Labor's nine but short of the 18 needed for a majority. Rockliff declared victory and plans to ask the governor to recommission his government, despite Labor leader Dean Winter not conceding and leaving open the possibility of forming government if the Liberals fail. The Greens retained at least five seats, and three independents, including those who previously voted against Rockliff, were returned, suggesting Rockliff will need to negotiate with left-leaning independents to govern. Labor has ruled out formal deals with the Greens but remains open to informal support arrangements, while Greens leader Rosalie Woodruff has called for a conversation about a potential alliance. The election delays the approval process for a new stadium in Hobart, and the final composition of the parliament may take weeks to determine as several seats are still undecided. Overall, while the Liberals have increased their vote share and seats, the balance of power rests with independents and minor parties, complicating government formation.