Understanding how Tasmania’s Parliament operates and how to vote in its elections is crucial for making your vote count.
In Tasmania, you participate in the democratic process by electing representatives to the parliament every four years. These representatives are tasked with reviewing and creating laws on your behalf.
Typically, candidates belong to political parties, although some may run independently. A political party can form the Tasmanian State Government if the majority of its candidates are elected in the House of Assembly. The largest party unable to form the government becomes the Opposition. Alternatively, a coalition of parties and candidates without a majority can form the government.
Elected representatives are known as Members of the House of Assembly (MHA) or Members of the Legislative Council (MLC). MHAs represent specific districts or electorates in the House of Assembly, while MLCs represent specific divisions in the Legislative Council.
The Tasmanian Parliament comprises two houses:
The House of Assembly (Lower House) consisting of 35 members, where laws are made, and the state budget is passed. The Premier, the head of the government, is elected in this house.
The Legislative Council (Upper House) comprising 15 members, where laws passed by the House of Assembly are reviewed. MLCs are elected for six-year terms, with a portion of the Council’s members facing election each year.
Voting for candidates in both houses is essential because they play crucial roles in government decision-making. Both houses must agree before new laws can be enacted.
For further details, visit the Tasmanian Parliament website.
