Tasmania's Liberals are a step closer to holding onto minority government after a key crossbencher pledged his support, coinciding with a move for an independent probe into the state's salmon industry.
Independent MP David O'Byrne confirmed on Sunday that he will back a Jeremy Rockliff-led Liberal government, saying he believed the party could form a workable majority on the floor of parliament.
The move comes after the major parties have, in recent weeks, attempted to woo the cross bench, who are yet to decide which side to back.
The shape of the next government will be decided when parliament resumes on Tuesday, following the July 19 election that delivered yet another unclear result.
Mr O'Byrne indicated he was still digesting the review announcement, but voiced concern for the future of those employed in the industry.
The review has drawn criticism from industry bodies, which accused the government of breaking commitments to hardworking Tasmanians.
It follows a warning on Friday that another mass fish kill could occur as Piscirickettsia salmonis persisted in salmon stocks throughout winter.
Mr Rockliff said the mass mortality event had put the industry on notice.
"This has been culminating for some time and recognising we are in a minority government situation, there are broad views across the new parliament when it comes to the salmon industry," he said.
"This is a very, very important industry for Tasmania, it employs many thousands of Tasmanians, both directly and indirectly, and a study … is crucial."
Bass Labor MP Janie Finlay said Mr Rockliff could not be trusted, adding the Labor Party remained determined to challenge his leadership.
The Australian Workers' Union called the decision to launch a review and pause the industry's expansion as the "disgraceful betrayal" of workers.
"The salmon industry is already the most heavily regulated primary industry in Tasmania. It operates under strict environmental monitoring, biomass caps, and nitrogen limits," Secretary Ian Wakefield said.
"This review is not a review, it's a political weapon."
Salmon Tasmania chief executive John Whittington provided AAP with a letter from Mr Rockliff dated July 2, just weeks before the election, stating that "there was no stronger supporter of (the) industry than the Tasmanian Liberals".
Dr Whittington slammed Mr Rockliff's move, saying he had gone back on his word and commitments.
The review is expected to be carried out by an independent "specialist organisation" outside of the state, and there will be a pause on marine expansion of the industry while it is completed.
The government also pledged to develop and deliver a Marine Environment Tasmania Act, in consultation with parliament and the community.
Greens Leader Rosalie Woodruff on Sunday remained cautious about Mr Rockliff's intentions.
"We will be working with all of you who care about our marine waterways to hold the Liberals to account on what they have promised," Dr Woodruff said.
At last month's state election, both the Liberals (14 seats) and Labor (10) finished short of the 18 seats required for majority.
Mr Rockliff was recommissioned as premier but will face a no-confidence motion that could turf his government and install Labor leader Dean Winter as premier.
