Voting closes in Tasmania’s early election as hung parliament looms

The state Liberals are chasing a record fourth successive term, while Labor is aiming to end a decade in opposition.

Saturday’s election was held more than a year ahead of schedule after the Liberals were unable to resolve a minority government standoff with two cross bench independents.

The premier, Jeremy Rockliff, claimed the Liberals were “within a whisker” of majority, despite some polls showing his party’s primary vote percentage will be in the 30s.

“I’m particularly proud of our candidates, a great bunch of people from all walks of life,” Rockliff told reporters after voting in Sassafras.

Labor leader Rebecca White and Liberal premier Jeremy Rockliff both say they are prepared to govern Tasmania in minority but have ruled out doing deals.

The pair have exchanged barbs over whether a new $715m stadium in Hobart – a condition of Tasmania’s licence for an AFL club – is the right priority for the state.