Chief Minister Andrew Barr has claimed victory in the ACT election, declaring work would begin on negotiations with a progressive crossbench.
"This progressive agenda - supporting economic growth, climate action and investment in public services - is what we took to the people of Canberra," Mr Barr said.
"And once again, we have been endorsed to lead the government of the Australian Capital Territory."
Labor had suffered a 3.3 per cent swing with 75.5 per cent of the vote counted late on Saturday night, but had maintained its overall number of seats.
Mr Barr and his husband Anthony Toms received a rousing welcome from Labor members on Saturday night, after the Labor leader looked set to secure a seventh term of government in the ACT.
"It does look that the crossbench will be five, and five people who hold progressive values and whose natural partner would be a Labor government," Mr Barr said.
The Chief Minister said conversations would begin with the Greens, Independents for Canberra's Thomas Emerson and Murrumbidgee independent Fiona Carrick.
"From what I have heard on TV tonight, we might have a little bit of work to convince a few of them to invest in public transport. We are up for that task," Mr Barr said.
"Canberrans have again voted to extend light rail, a strong public transport system."
Mr Barr congratulated the Greens, Mr Emerson and Ms Carrick on their election to the Assembly, and acknowledged the concession of Canberra Liberals leader Elizabeth Lee.
"Elizabeth rang me a little while ago in what is the hardest phone call to make in politics," he said.
"It was graceful, short - but understandably. She and her team have worked incredibly hard and diligently and have received reasonable support across the community.
"We should acknowledge that and acknowledge the contribution that the Liberal Party made to our democracy. ... It is important that there is a strong opposition and I congratulate it on this."
Mr Barr extended thanks to Labor members and volunteers, his staff and his family, before kissing his husband, Mr Toms.
"So, with that, the hard work begins. I know everyone feels like they're probably running, you know, on the last 1 per cent," he said.
"But enjoy tonight. Thank you. I look forward to working hard for you all over the next four years."
Labor's Mick Gentleman looked set to be defeated in Brindabella, as non-incumbent Labor candidates Caitlin Tough and Taimus Werner-Gibbings outpolled the veteran minister.
Labor had secured 10 seats - two in each of the five five-member electorates, while the Greens looked to have two and independents held two.
Mr Barr said Labor's campaign had been "near flawless" in its execution.
