TasFarmers, Media Release, 5 June 2025

TasFarmers is calling out the state’s political leaders for failing to prioritise stability and good governance through the parliamentary process, following the Rockliff Government’s loss of a no-confidence vote on the floor of the House of Assembly.

President Ian Sauer said the result of the no-confidence vote likely being an early election only served to destabilise and create a freeze on investments, stopping people from doing business.

Mr Sauer said, “With an election called, all policy development, government reform and business development dries up for at least the next four months

“This parliament was elected in anticipation of a full term, and it is the responsibility of all politicians to ensure it does. We were very clear about this leading into the last election, and the farming and business communities have said this behaviour destabilises and discourages investment.

“The crossbench needs to realise they’re fuelling the same instability we saw last election, driven by single-issue politics and self-interest, not the greater good of Tasmania,” Mr Sauer said.

TasFarmers is urging all parties to commit to a full term of the next parliament and to prioritise the needs of the agriculture community.

“The current state of play isn’t inspiring confidence in Tasmania’s business community. A full term delivers certainty, certainty builds confidence, and confidence drives investment, our economy needs all three,” Mr Sauer said. 

“The budget has played a large part in the calling of an election, and it was of concern to TasFarmers, the message it sent to primary producers was that we aren’t going to meet our commitments within twelve months after the fact.

“These commitments to the farming community require resolution, such as funding a strategic benefits payment to ensure ongoing returns for farmers affected by the NW transmission line, which is critical to securing the project’s social licence or establishing a mentorship program to support the next generation of farmers. 

“With an election looming, a host of agricultural initiatives and projects of state significance are at risk; and the agriculture sector, like the rest of the community, has had a gutful,” Mr Sauer said.