Richard Flanagan on the ‘ludicrous’ deal derailing Tasmanian politics

Today, award-winning author Richard Flanagan discusses the political crisis in his home state of Tasmania – and why it’s a warning for the rest of the country.

Jul 29, 2025, updated Jul 29, 2025

When Tasmanian premier Jeremy Rockliff struck a deal with the AFL to build a brand new stadium in Hobart’s historic centre, it was a decision made without cabinet, treasury or parliamentary backing.

It’s that stadium that’s kicked off a messy fight over who will lead Tasmania.

It’s now been over a week since the election that delivered a hung parliament and neither the Liberal leader or Labor leader have managed to form government.

Today, award-winning author Richard Flanagan discusses the political crisis in his home state of Tasmania – and why it’s a warning for the rest of the country. 

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Guest: Award-winning author Richard Flanagan

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