Parliament Weekly: Indies deliver in a great week for minority government

It was a strong week for minority government — even if it flew under the media radar. Greens and Independent MPs moved multiple amendments to Government Bills, aimed at strengthening scrutiny, transparency and fairness. Several passed, including two of mine, and will become law if cleared by the Upper House — a clear example of what’s possible without majority rule.

My Talking Points column in the Mercury explained why the Short Stay Levy Bill won’t solve the rental crisis gripping Tasmania. In the wake of the shocking recent Anglicare rental affordability snapshot, the housing crisis dominated debate, with growing community pressure echoed through the crossbench. Members pushed the Government to go beyond first‑home buyer concessions — which can inflate prices — and tackle structural issues. A key focus was the impact of short stay accommodation in Hobart, as house prices and rents hit record highs while vacancy rates remain critically low.

I asked questions about the Macquarie Point stadium funding, the relocation of Clare House, antibiotic resistance in our waters, and public housing priorities, and supported Professor Razay’s motion on walking and preventive health. Elsewhere, I paid tribute to the work of Dr Harley Stanton of Wings 4 Parkinsons and the National Parkinson’s Action Plan, and looked forward to Neighbourhood House Week, which begins on Monday with events across the state. 

In a notable win, Labor’s bill to extend public holiday pay to workers on Easter Sunday passed the House, bringing Tasmania into line with other states, despite opposition from the minority Liberal Government.

Meanwhile, Labor and independents pushed to increase their share of questions at Estimates to match their representation. Disappointingly, the Greens sided with the Liberals to block the change, with the Speaker casting the deciding vote. Still, it highlights the growing influence of the independents, and I warmly congratulate Clare Glade-Wright on her successful election to the Legislative Council. I look forward to another strong, progressive independent voice in the Parliament, because this week showed what we can achieve. 

​​​​​​​The message to government is becoming clearer each week: it no longer controls the parliament. Legislation must reflect broader community expectations, not just vested interests. That’s a win for democracy, but the real test will be whether the upcoming Budget reflects the will of the parliament.