tasustatus

Tasustatus is a term used in the context of the Tasmanian government and its relationship with the Australian federal government. It refers to the status of Tasmania within the Australian federation. Tasmania is the only state in Australia that has the power to secede from the federation, a provision known as the "Tasmanian Option." This unique constitutional arrangement allows the Tasmanian Parliament to vote on whether to remain part of Australia or to secede, with the decision being binding on the Australian Parliament.

The Tasmanian Option was included in the Constitution of Australia in 1904, reflecting the historical context of Tasmania's separation from the mainland colonies and its subsequent admission to the federation. The option has been invoked twice in the state's history. The first secession referendum was held in 1975, with 50.3% of voters choosing to remain in the federation. The second referendum was held in 1999, with 51.6% of voters again choosing to remain in the federation.

The Tasmanian Option is a significant aspect of the political landscape in Tasmania, influencing debates about statehood, federalism, and the future of the state. It has also been a subject of academic and public interest, with discussions often focusing on the implications of secession for Australia's political and economic systems. Despite the option's existence, there has been no serious movement towards secession in recent decades, and the Tasmanian government has consistently prioritized maintaining the state's membership in the federation.