Gutwein promises conviction, compassion and opportunity
Peter Gutwein says he will lead a united government — but admits the government needs to do more on health, housing and social inclusion.
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PREMIER Peter Gutwein has promised Tasmanians a government of “conviction, compassion and opportunity”.
Mr Gutwein was elected state Liberal Party leader unopposed shortly after midday on Monday with Jeremy Rockliff as his deputy.
He said he would deliver a united government which would take action on health, housing and climate change – and make a push for greater social inclusion.
“The team I lead remains united and focused on delivering for Tasmaninans,” he said in his first press conference after winning the job vacated by Will Hodgman after six years.
“Our government will be a government of conviction of compassion and importantly, one of opportunity for all.
“Our plan has worked and I see no need for radial diversions from that plan.
“Tasmanians need to know the sensible responsible governance we have provided in the past will continue under my leadership.”
The other pair of contenders in what was set to be a hotly-contested leadership vote – Michael Ferguson and Elise Archer – withdrew at the 11th hour after realising they didn’t have the numbers to prevail.
As MPs gathered in Hobart, Mr Ferguson made a brief comment about party unity as he entered the Executive Building before issuing a statement withdrawing and offering Mr Gutwein had his full support.
“I have been speaking with my colleagues over the weekend about the leadership of the Liberal Party and have decided to not stand as a candidate,” he said.
“Elise Archer joins me in wanting our new leadership to be elected unopposed.
“As I said last Thursday my position, as always, is to do what is best for our party, the Government and most importantly the Tasmanian people.”
In return, Mr Gutwein was gracious in victory.
“I have long respected his capacity, his hard work and his intellect,” he said of Mr Ferguson.
“I again make the point that I appreciate the discipline and professional way that the discussions of the last few days have been conducted.”
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Mr Gutwein told reporters he planned to stick closely to the agenda the Liberal government had taken to the 2018 state election.
But he acknowledged that it had work to do to address its perceived weak points.
“There is more to do, demand in health remains at elevated levels and we need to do more,” he said.
“Demand for housing hasn’t abated and we need to do more.
“A rapidly changing climate is now the new norm and we must learn from the recent lessons of the mainland bushfires and once again, we must do more.”
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Mr Gutwein said he would continue to be himself, and would work to ensure that state’s economic boom for the benefit of all.
“Every leader brings their own style. You’ve become accustomed to my style, over the last number of years that I’ve treasurer.
“One thing that I do bring to the table, in terms of the commitment that I give to the Tasmanian people, one thing that I have a burning desire to do is to ensure that the opportunities that Will Hodgman worked so hard to create are being shared across the whole of the state.
“I come from humble circumstances, I’m the son of immigrants who came to this country, 50 years ago on the promise of a better life.
“Through hard work my parents could build a life for themselves and they worked night and day so that their children could have better life than they.
“My vision for the state is for a Tasmania, that no matter where you live, no matter what your background, no matter what your circumstances are, opportunity will be there and if you want to grasp those opportunities, a better life will be within your reach.”
Mr Gutwein said he would annouce a minimal cabinet reshuffle later in the week. He said he was considering retaining the Treasury portfolio but would consult with colleagues.
Mr Rockliff will retain Education and Training and Mental Health and Wellbeing and Mr Gutwein indicated that Sue Hickey would continue as speaker.
He said he had had had a conversation with key independent Madeleine Ogilvie during the last week. Ms Ogilvie yesterday said she planned to stay as an independent and scotched suggestions she might join the govenrment.
Mr Gutwein was formally sworn in as Tasmania’s 46th Premier by Governor Kate Warner in a brief ceremony at Govenrment House shortly after 3pm.
Professor Warner those told assembled that Mr Gutwein predecessor Will Hodgman had tendered his resignation from parliament not long before.
Mr Rockliff told reporters he was committed to standing at the 2022 state election and was 100 per cent behind his new leader.
“We always think about what opportunities may be for us but I believe that my role is best placed as a very good deputy and that’s the role that I’ve enjoyed over the course of the last 14 years under Will of course and I believe that Peter will be a fantastic Premier and will continue to lead a very strong and united team.”
“We can’t all be premier, you have to look out for the best interests of the team and Peter Gutwein going forward is in the best interests of the team.”
david.killick@news.com.au
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