Tasmania's primary industries minister faces a conflict of interest investigation after revealing she's in a relationship with the head of her department.
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Liberal MP Sarah Courtney stepped down from ministerial duties on Tuesday pending an independent review into her conduct.
It was revealed in parliament by Premier Will Hodgman that Ms Courtney had started a "personal relationship" with Department of Primary Industries, Parks Water and Environment head John Whittington.
Mr Hodgman says he has taken legal advice as to whether Ms Courtney has breached her ministerial code of conduct.
The head of the state service is reviewing ministerial decisions made by Ms Courtney and considering whether a code of conduct investigation is needed.
The state opposition wants Ms Courtney sacked.
"The minister has clearly breached the ministerial code of conduct," Labor leader Rebecca White told reporters.
"The questions is 'how long has this been occurring between her and her head of department?'."
Ms Courtney told the premier of her relationship with Mr Whittington on Sunday.
A government spokesperson said it had developed over a "short period" of time.
The ABC reports the pair travelled together to Asia in September on a trade mission.
Mr Whittington has taken leave while the matter is investigated.
Ms Courtney, member for Bass, was appointed Tasmania's first female primary industries minister as well as racing minister in March after the Liberals' re-election.
She won't be paid wages or receive any ministerial benefits while her conduct is being reviewed.
The government hasn't said when Ms Courtney's relationship with Mr Whittington began or which ministerial decisions are being examined.
Tasmania's Ministerial Code of Conduct doesn't specifically mention personal relationships but says ministers must meet the "highest ethical standards" and report any conflicts of interest.
Australian Associated Press
