Tasmania Election 2025: Political Turmoil Triggers Fourth Poll in Seven Years
Tasmania will return to the polls on 19 July 2025, following a dramatic no-confidence motion that has reshaped the state’s political landscape. The state’s Liberal Premier Jeremy Rockliff, who had been under increasing pressure, sought an early election after losing the confidence of parliament.
Governor Dissolves Parliament Amid Crisis
On Wednesday evening, Rockliff met with Governor Barbara Baker to officially request the dissolution of parliament. In a public statement, Baker confirmed that she granted the request and issued a writ for an election to take place on 19 July 2025.
This move marks the fourth state election in just seven years, with Tasmania previously heading to the polls in 2021 and 2024. Political instability and internal party disputes have pushed the island state into back-to-back elections, highlighting deep divisions within leadership.
Governor Cites No Alternative Government
Despite criticism, Baker stated: “Notwithstanding the recent 2024 election, the public interest in avoiding the cost of another election and the prevailing public mood against holding an election, I have granted Premier Rockliff a dissolution.” She added: “I make this grant because I am satisfied that there is no real possibility that an alternative government can be formed.”
Rockliff Falls After No-Confidence Vote
Premier Rockliff’s downfall came after a no-confidence motion was passed against him on 5 June 2025. Though he retained support from some in his party, internal unrest had grown. Rumors surfaced that former senator Eric Abetz and ex-deputy premier Michael Ferguson were being considered as replacements.
Still, Rockliff firmly stood his ground, stating: “I have a commitment from my team to support me as leader and I am not going anywhere.” He rejected accusations of being “driven by ego” and insisted his leadership remained intact despite the minority government status.
Liberals Rally, But Doubts Linger
Liberal MP Jacquie Petrusma backed Rockliff, declaring: “The premier is a fantastic leader and he has 100 per cent support of the PLP (parliamentary Liberal Party).” Yet her unwillingness to deny internal party counting raised eyebrows.
Labor leader Dean Winter also met with the governor, making it clear his party would not seek power through a Greens-backed minority government. “In that meeting (with the governor) I reiterated my position that Labor will not be doing a deal with the Greens,” Winter confirmed.
Labor-Greens-Independent Alliance Topples Premier
Labor’s no-confidence motion was supported by the Greens and three independents, setting the stage for Rockliff’s ousting. Labor MP Shane Broad added colorfully: “I come from a farm and no matter how much you love that old sheep dog, if you can’t round up sheep anymore it’s time to get a new one.”
Rockliff responded to the motion, labeling it a “deceptive power grab.” He criticized Labor’s leadership, attacking Dean Winter for “failing to front up” to the media in the wake of the crisis. The tensions between both major parties seem set to shape a fierce election campaign.
Liberals Launch Campaign Despite Minority Struggle
Despite the internal storm, the Liberals launched into campaign mode, visiting hospitals and unveiling a four-year elective surgery policy. After winning just 14 seats in March 2024, they had relied heavily on crossbench support to maintain power.
Now, Tasmanians face yet another early election—an uncommon frequency that reflects ongoing instability. As the state heads into election season once again, voters will weigh leadership, policy, and accountability in shaping Tasmania’s political future.
