Tasmanian Premier Ousted in Narrow No-Confidence Vote, Early Election Set

Tasmania is heading to an early state election following a successful no-confidence motion against Premier Jeremy Rockliff, which passed by a narrow 18-17 vote with Labor speaker Michelle O’Byrne casting the deciding vote. The motion, brought by Labor leader Dean Winter, was supported by the Greens and some crossbenchers, primarily due to concerns over the Liberal minority government's budget deficit and a forecasted debt blowout. Rockliff, who has been premier since 2022, refused to resign, accusing Winter of a selfish power grab and warning of political instability. Winter expressed readiness for an election, criticizing Rockliff's handling of the budget and asset sales, and rejecting any deal with the Greens to form government. Key issues leading to the vote include the unsustainable budget, risks to public services, and controversy over a nearly $1 billion stadium proposal. The political turmoil marks the fourth state election in Tasmania in seven years, highlighting ongoing instability under Liberal leadership since 2014.