Statement on Liberty Bell Bay Liquidation

Today’s decision to place Liberty Bell Bay into liquidation is deeply disappointing for the communities of George Town, Bell Bay and Northern Tasmania.

As the company transitions from voluntary administration to liquidation after GFG Alliance ripped almost $200 million from the business, the Tasmanian Government will continue to engage constructively with EY in its capacity as liquidator.

The Tasmanian Government remains focused on ensuring workers and their families are supported during this time.

In July, we launched the FORGE AHEAD program with Master Builders Tasmania to give Liberty workers the opportunity to undertake nationally recognised training needed to step onto commercial and residential construction sites - and connect them directly with builders who are hiring across the state.

A number of drop-in sessions have been conducted by Bell Bay Advanced Manufacturing Zone to support workers into employment or training.

The Government is actively supporting businesses across the supply chain by working with the Bell Bay Advanced Manufacturing Zone to connect businesses with assistance.

The manganese ore at the site remains under the control of the State-appointed receivers and is separate from the liquidation process. The receivers will shortly commence a sale process for the ore with the Government focused on achieving the best available outcome.

Liquidation does not diminish the strategic potential of the site. There is third-party interest, and the Government will engage constructively with the liquidator and prospective proponents as opportunities for its future are explored.

The Tasmanian Government is backing the region, with its Northern Economic Plan to be released at the end of August.