With Tasmania’s July 19 election approaching, more prominent figures have entered the political race.
Elise Archer Returns as Independent
Former Tasmanian Liberal attorney-general Elise Archer will run as an independent for the seat of Clark. She briefly campaigned in the last state election and is now re-entering politics out of frustration with the Rockliff government, citing budget mismanagement and a disconnect from the public.
Archer has strongly opposed the escalating costs of the proposed $945 million AFL stadium at Macquarie Point — a project she once supported in government. She says the government’s financial commitment has gone beyond its original promise and argues that borrowing constitutes spending beyond what was pledged.
Despite past bullying allegations, which she denies, Archer says she’s motivated to see a balanced, responsible parliament, and believes a minority government is inevitable. She is open to working with either major party if elected.
Labor’s New Faces
Former Tourism Tasmania and Salmon Tasmania CEO Luke Martin will contest the seat of Clark for Labor. This marks his first foray into politics. Martin, who recently left the salmon industry to work for Labor leader Dean Winter, criticises the current government’s handling of public finances, calling the budget situation a “train smash.”
Also joining Labor’s ranks is Jessica Munday, Secretary of Unions Tasmania, who is seeking preselection for Franklin. A longtime workers’ rights advocate, Munday said her decision was driven by the need to push back against privatisation and job insecurity under the current Liberal government. She believes Labor is now united and ready to grow its presence in parliament.
Independent Candidates Step Up
Independent candidates are also gaining momentum:
- Jack Davenport, a child protection advocate and school social worker, will run again in Bass. He aims to shift the political focus away from the Macquarie Point stadium and toward critical issues like housing, child protection, and government accountability.
- In Franklin, Tamar Cordover is running on a platform centered on social and environmental issues.
- In Lyons, architect Jiri Lev has announced his candidacy as an independent, adding to the growing number of community-backed candidates challenging major party dominance.
