Tasmanians will go to polls again on July 19 after no confidence motion in Premier Jeremy Rockliff

Tasmanians will go to polls for the fourth time in seven years on July 19, after a no-confidence motion in Premier Jeremy Rockliff left the state in limbo for a week.

Tasmanians will face a snap election on July 19 after days of confusion following a no-confidence motion in Premier Jeremy Rockliff succeeded.

Governor Barbara Baker granted approval for the election a day after Mr Rockliff made the request in order to end the state’s political deadlock.

She said she was “satisfied that there is no real possibility that an alternative government can be formed”.

In a statement, released on Wednesday night, the Governor said she would dissolve Parliament and issue the writ for an election on July 19.

“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,” Governor Baker said.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff has called a snap election after losing a no-confidence motion in the lower house of state parliament last week. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Mr Winter last week moved the motion against Mr Rockliff over the minority Liberal government’s handling of the state’s troubled economy, following the handing down of the state budget on May 29.

The budget forecast net debt was expected to approach $11bn by the end of the decade.

Labor also took aim at the bungled handling of the rollout of the new Spirit of Tasmania vessels.

Mr Rockliff lost last Thursday’s no-confidence motion 17-18 in the lower house of parliament, making his position untenable, with key independents refusing to back his minority government.

He had refused to resign in order for another Liberal MP to take over as Premier, saying he would instead seek a snap election to decide the future of the government.

He said he had the support of his party room and the election would “draw a line in the sand”.

“Before visiting the Governor, I convened a meeting of the Parliamentary Liberal Party where I, once again, received unanimous support to continue to lead the Liberal Party,” Mr Rockliff said on Wednesday night.

“Another election is not what I wanted, and I know that it’s not what Tasmanians wanted, but it was forced upon us by the Leader of the Opposition.

“So, let’s get on with it. Our team is building a better Tasmania.”.

Labor leader Dean Winter triggered the developments in Tasmanian politics by moving the no-confidence motion against the Premier Jeremy Rockliff. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Mr Winter released a statement, saying it was time for a “fresh start” for the state.

“With Jeremy Rockliff granted his wish of an election, Tasmanians have a choice,” Mr Winter said.

“The Liberals want to sell off Tasmania, while Labor will keep Tasmania in Tasmanian hands.

“Only a vote for Labor will ensure Tasmanian profits stay in Tasmania, investing in schools, health, and housing.

“Our entire labour movement is united and ready to send the Liberals a loud message – Tasmania is not for sale.

“It’s time for a fresh start for Tasmania.”

Mr Winter met with the governor at her request on Wednesday, before Mr Rockliff returned for a second meeting just after 6pm.

She had initially met with Mr Rockliff on Tuesday, but delayed making a decision on an election saying she would take “the time necessary to give due consideration to all available options”.

Mr Rockliff had delayed visiting Government House until Tuesday to ensure parliament passed emergency legislation to ensure public servants would be paid during and after an election.

Tasmanians were thrust into an early state election in March 2024, as Mr Rockliff attempted to regain a majority Liberal government.The previous Liberal leader, Peter Gutwein, called a snap election in 2021 – a year ahead of schedule as well.