MP stalls talks on new Australian government

Australia's political gridlock is no closer to a resolution after a "kingmaker" independent MP yesterday unveiled new demands as his price for support to form a minority government.

Tasmanian Andrew Wilkie presented Labour prime minister Julia Gillard and conservative opposition leader Tony Abbott with a list of 20 priorities ranging from a price on carbon emissions to limits on slot machines and pension increases.

"It's a long list because it's been a long time since southern Tasmania had a fair go from Canberra," Mr Wilkie said.

Meanwhile, another independent MP, Bob Katter, said he was also drawing up demands for his Outback seat.

Labour is fighting to hold on to power after neither of the main parties won a majority in the 21 August elections.

Adding to the confusion, independent MP Rob Oakeshott accused Mr Abbott's coalition of trying to discredit him.