Independent MP Sue Hickey is not letting up on the issue of political donations, labelling the government's commitments on improved transparency to electoral disclosure a "sham" and a threat to democracy.
Premier Peter Gutwein responded by saying it will be the "most transparent" election ever seen in Tasmania.
Ms Hickey's words come a week into her new position as an independent, where she will now be required to pay all of her own expenses during this campaign.
In February the government, under the Electoral Act Review, introduced new transparency measures that would see political parties required to publicly disclose all details on donations of between $1000 and $5000.
Ms Hickey said those measures would still allow large anonymous donations to be made, but in multiple smaller amounts.
"A big donor seeking to give the Liberals say $50,000, could simply make ten donations of $4999 and one of $10, all under different entities and the result is still the same, anonymity and undue influence by vested interests," she said.
"The last election was an embarrassment. Undeclared donations to the Liberal Party and advertising by large, vested interests constituted a threat to Tasmanian democracy and Mr Gutwein has done nothing.
"This is because he knows it is to the Liberal Party's advantage. They get the big money and who knows what the pay-off is or what deals are being done."
Premier Peter Gutwein is on record as saying the eleven recommendations for reform posted in the Electoral Act Review will be accepted by government and be used to inform legislation introduced to Parliament during the winter break.
Ms Hickey criticised Mr Gutwein for the legislative delay.
[This] reform could have been done, however Mr Gutwein rushed off to call an unnecessary election in a blatant attempt to maintain his power."
Mr Gutwein denied this claim.
"The timing of this election has not allowed for that legislation to be drafted, but as I've said this will be the most transparent election that has been run in Tasmania."
