Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff says he’s “actively considering” calling an early state election, after he failed to reach an agreement with the two independents who are keeping the government in power.
Mr Rockliff met with Liberal-turned-Independent MPs Lara Alexander and John Tucker on Friday, a week after he gave them an ultimatum to support his minority government on his terms or go to an early election.
Despite Mrs Alexander and Mr Tucker agreeing to stick to the original agreement they signed in May — to provide the government with confidence and supply — Mr Rockliff said there remained a “trust deficit”.
“I’m actively considering requesting the Governor for an early election,” Mr Rockliff said on Sunday.
“While I had a good meeting with Mrs Alexander and Mr Tucker on Friday, it didn’t result in what I required and what stability is needed, and that is for the two independents to not support Labor and Greens motions in the parliament.”
Mr Rockliff did not say when he would announce the election date, but said he would consult with his cabinet colleagues on Tuesday.