Full Breakdown
ACT Greens End Confidence-and-Supply Pact with Labor Government
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Formal Agreement Ends
The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Greens announced they will not sign a new confidence-and-supply agreement with the ACT Labor government for the remainder of the parliamentary term. Greens leader Jo Clay said negotiations broke down over policy commitments, funding levels, and delivery dates. The Greens will still support the upcoming budget but will assess each piece of legislation individually.
Background & Context
Since 2008, the ACT Greens have participated in confidence-and-supply or coalition arrangements with Labor, enabling the minority Labor government to pass legislation in the 25-member Legislative Assembly. The previous agreement expired after long-term Greens leader Shane Rattenbury retired earlier this year, prompting fresh negotiations. Labor won 10 seats in the 2024 election; the Greens hold four seats, making their support pivotal for stable governance.
Data & Statistics
- Legislative Assembly composition: Labor 10, Greens 4, others held by Liberals and independents.
- Negotiated policy areas: about 25 of 30 were agreed in principle; six remained unresolved.
- Key Greens demands included a portable rental bond scheme, a stronger Rental Ombudsman, weekend library services at Kippax and Erindale, protection of the “Western Edge” conservation area, a greater role for Traditional Custodians, $90 million for disability supports, stronger gambling-harm reduction measures, ending funding for horse racing, a phased ban on new internal-combustion-engine vehicles, and at least $5 million annually for the climate action plan.
Official Statements & Responses
Chief Minister Andrew Barr called the outcome “disappointing” and said Labor had approached the talks “constructively and in good faith.” He noted agreement on objectives such as housing affordability, climate action, and public services, but said Labor could not support certain Greens proposals because they conflicted with policy positions, fiscal constraints, or required flexible implementation pathways. Barr emphasized that Labor will continue to govern for all Canberrans and will engage with the Greens, Liberals and independents on a case-by-case basis.
A Labor spokesperson reiterated commitment to strengthening renters’ rights, improving library access, protecting environmentally significant areas, reducing emissions, and supporting people with disability. The spokesperson rejected claims that Labor was unwilling to act, stressing the need to consider consultation, budget processes, operational planning, emerging evidence and fiscal circumstances.
Independent MLA Fiona Carrick said the minority government must respond to a broad range of views while returning the budget to a financially sustainable state, and she pledged to act in good faith to support the government where possible.
Criticism & Opposition
Opposition leader Mark Parton framed the breakdown as an opportunity for the Liberals, Greens and crossbench members to achieve outcomes that may have been unattainable under the previous agreement. He warned that without a formal pact, the government faces heightened scrutiny and the risk of “false steps” that could trigger a “landmine” of political consequences.