Clark MP Helen Burnet has resigned from the Tasmanian Greens and will now sit as an independent in the state parliament's lower house. Ms. Burnet, who has served as a Member of Parliament for under two years, stated that this decision was made to enhance her effectiveness, accountability, and ability to advocate for issues important to Tasmania and the Clark community.
Impact on the Greens
Ms. Burnet's departure reduces the Greens' representation in Tasmania's lower house to four Members of Parliament, in addition to one upper house member.
Greens leader Rosalie Woodruff issued a statement describing Ms. Burnet's decision as "deeply disappointing" and indicated that the party had not been informed of this consideration prior to the announcement. Dr. Woodruff acknowledged that the decision would likely impact voters and party supporters who had elected Ms. Burnet as a Greens MP six months prior.
Burnet's Rationale
Ms. Burnet thanked Greens party members and volunteers, acknowledging that her decision might be met with disapproval from some. She affirmed that her fundamental beliefs and values remain unchanged despite her altered political affiliation.
Ms. Burnet cited a necessity to amplify constituent concerns, including those related to the cost of living, public transport, the proposed stadium, and water quality. She stated that she had raised these concerns with Dr. Woodruff since before the previous year's state election and expressed difficulty in having her voice heard on these matters within the party structure.
Ms. Burnet indicated her intention to advocate for these issues with a more prominent voice in parliament. She has also informed the Premier that she will continue to apply the same level of scrutiny to government actions as before and will not enter into agreements with the government.
Background
Prior to her election to the Tasmanian parliament in 2024, Ms. Burnet served as Hobart's Deputy Mayor for seven years and was a council member for a total of 19 years. She maintains her role as deputy speaker of the lower house.
This event follows similar instances of Greens members departing to sit as independents or join other parties at federal and state levels in recent years.