Independent MPs on Minority Government Negotiations

As we await the final outcome of the election, Premier Jeremy Rockliff continues in his view that his party will again form government. On Tuesday this week he said “Today I have circulated a draft framework to help ensure the new Parliament works effectively.”

“We will seek to co-develop an enhanced working protocol that enables the Government, independents, and single-member parties to work together in the best interests of all Tasmanians,” he said, further adding, “It is now incumbent on each of us to find a new way of governing in the best interests of Tasmanians.”

A joint statement issued today from independent MHAs Craig Garland and Kristie Johnston, and independent candidate Peter George is published below, along with a statement from independent MHA David O’Byrne.

Media release – Joint Statement from independent MPs Craig Garland and Kristie Johnston, and independent candidate Peter George, 24 July 2025

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In light of the significant public interest and ongoing media speculation about the formation of a minority government following Saturday’s election—and following the Premier’s public statement on Monday—we are issuing this formal joint statement. In making this joint statement, we want to be clear that we are not indicating a formal or informal alliance together.

Any suggestion that only one major party has a mandate to form government is simply incorrect, and for that reason, like other crossbench members, we will be speaking to both major parties about confidence and supply.

While informal discussions have begun, we will not begin formal negotiations with either major party until the results of the House of Assembly election are confirmed. This is not expected to occur for at least another week.

We will continue to request briefings through the Premier’s office from relevant Government Departments, including follow-up requests to access the Whole-of-State Business Case for the Marinus project.

We will also use this time to meet with other members of both Houses and seek advice from independent experts across key policy areas, including the economy and governance.

We will not be conducting negotiations through the media. Good faith, mutual respect and trust are essential foundations for any successful negotiation and for the stability of any power-sharing arrangement.

Now is the time to set the tone for the next Parliament.

So, while we appreciate the public and media interest in this process, and the need for transparency, in order to demonstrate trust, good faith and respect during these discussions, we will only be providing updates with the prior agreement of all involved.

We expect the same approach from the major parties if they are also committed to negotiating with us in good faith.

We anticipate that this process will take a number of weeks and will not be pressured or railroaded by either major party.

We remain committed to a respectful and constructive process focused on achieving a stable and accountable government for Tasmania.