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Liberty Bell Bay

Liberty Bell Bay (LBB) continues to face ongoing operational and financial challenges, and has not been in production since early June 2025.

The Tasmanian Government approved a secured loan of $20 million to LBB to enable the purchase of manganese ore which was required to restart operations. This support was designed to assist Tasmanian workers, their families and smaller businesses in the supply chain by facilitating the restart of production.

Despite ongoing engagement, LBB has breached multiple conditions in relation to its loan from the Tasmanian Government and a restart in production continues to look unlikely. The loan expired on 18 January at which time LBB failed to repay. The Tasmanian Government has now acted by appointing receivers and managers over the ore. This move is designed to protect the secured asset (the ore), and Tasmania’s interests, while continuing to work with LBB and any interested parties to determine a way forward.

LBB remains a commercial operation and has not entered liquidation or administration. The receivers and managers appointed by the Tasmanian Government can act only in respect to taking possession of and securing the ore. They do not have the power to act as receivers and managers over any other part of LBB, or in relation to any other creditors with debts outstanding.

The ore will be moved to a secure location. By holding the ore and not attempting to sell it immediately, the Tasmanian Government is providing LBB with the opportunity to find a resolution that facilitates a return to full production.

Support for workers and businesses

Business Tasmania can provide information and support, as well as referrals to relevant services including free business advice through the Tasmanian Business Advice Service. For more information visit https://www.businessadvice.tas.gov.au/ or contact the Business Tasmania team on 1800 440 026 or at ask@business.tas.gov.au.

Jobs Tasmania has several programs that offer targeted support for employees including:

  • Regional Jobs Hubs – providing connections to local employers, training and job opportunities and can also assist with pre-employment support including resume writing, interview preparation and career coaching.
  • Career Connector Service – supporting redundant workers to find new employment by providing skills assessment, careers coaching and employment advice, and providing referrals to employers, service providers or employment agencies.
  • Rapid Response Skills Initiative – providing up to $3,000 to people who have lost their job due to retrenchment, business downsizing, or closure. Funding can be used for occupational tickets/licences, formal education and training and non-accredited training to help move into new employment quickly.

More information on these services, including how to access them, can be found on the Jobs Tasmania website https://www.jt.tas.gov.au/ or by contacting Business Tasmania.

This type of uncertainty can be a stressful time for those impacted, including employees, families, businesses and members of the broader community. Free and confidential support is available through: