Rumours of a potential political earthquake in the nation's capital have been dismissed as unfounded, with both the Canberra Liberals and the ACT Greens denying they are plotting to form a coalition government and oust Chief Minister Andrew Barr.
Leaders label coalition talks as 'jokingly' extreme
Opposition Leader Mark Parton has confirmed that while "extreme ideas" were discussed with Greens leader Shane Rattenbury, the conversations were held "almost jokingly." The comments came in response to persistent speculation that the two parties were in serious negotiations to seize power from ACT Labor.
Multiple sources had suggested Mr Parton and Mr Rattenbury were in talks to form a joint cabinet, with an agreed transfer of the chief ministership after a set period. The rumoured plan could have been actioned as early as the first week of February, when the Legislative Assembly next sits.
"Ultimately I'm here to bring down the government, that's why I'm here," Mr Parton told ABC radio on Tuesday. "And I'll be finding whatever ways I can over the next three or four years to do that, but I'm not sure that it's going to stretch to the sort of arrangement that was alluded to."
Greens leader says rumours 'got a little carried away'
Greens leader Shane Rattenbury acknowledged the duty of non-government parties to find common ground but said speculation of a formal coalition had "probably ... got a little carried away there." He confirmed having "great conversations" with the Liberals over the summer about working together on issues of concern in the ACT.
However, Mr Rattenbury was unequivocal in stating there is no agreement for a no-confidence motion in Chief Minister Andrew Barr during the first sitting week. "We need to work with whoever we can in the Assembly to get good outcomes for the community," he added.
Mr Rattenbury noted that the Liberals and Greens together hold 13 votes in the 25-member parliament, a working majority that allows them to collaborate on motions, committees, and private members' bills. He cited past cooperation, including establishing a health inquiry and a review of the ACT's fiscal position.
Budget rhetoric shifts as parties seek common ground
In a notable shift, the Greens leader also addressed the territory's budget, stating the ACT "could not live on the credit card all the time." He highlighted that while the parties come from different perspectives, finding a sustainable answer for the territory's finances was important.
"The Canberra Liberals, of course, are very much known for their economic position, but the Greens are a party of sustainability and that includes in our finances," Mr Rattenbury said.
The weekend saw the unusual step of both Labor and the Greens issuing statements to quash the persistent coalition rumours. Mr Parton initially declared the speculation "unfounded" on Saturday.
While ruling out an immediate confidence motion, Mr Parton indicated the Liberals would continue "thinking outside the box" and talking with the Greens, independents, and even Labor members to advance their legislative agenda. The political manoeuvring sets the stage for a tense and closely watched sitting year for the ACT Legislative Assembly in 2026.
