Today is a very sad day for the communities of Bell Bay, George Town and Northern Tasmania – the administrators of Liberty Bell Bay, EY, have announced their decision to commence the orderly closure of the business.
The administrators announced earlier today that no buyer for the facility has been found despite an expedited sales process, supported by both Governments.
Workers, unions, local businesses, EY and all levels of government have worked tirelessly these past few months towards finding a serious buyer for the smelter.
This includes a joint commitment from the Commonwealth and Tasmanian Government to support almost $10 million in funding to support wages throughout the administration process and a joint offer to consider a $20 million start-up package.
In addition, the Tasmanian Government provided a $20 million loan to the previous owner to purchase ore which remained on-site at the smelter for a potential buyer. The consortium was also offered to continue the concessional 10-year power agreement struck with the previous owner last year.
This is deeply difficult news for the workers of Liberty Bell Bay and the communities of Bell Bay, George Town and Northern Tasmania who have fought tirelessly for a better outcome.
Both the Commonwealth and Tasmanian Governments are now focused on ensuring workers and their families are supported during this time, with immediate on-ground support now available.
