Boags Brewery

On 2 June 2026 LION announced it is planning to close the historic James Boag’s Brewery in Launceston in November 2026.

The Tasmanian Government has deployed Jobs Tasmania, in partnership with the Federal Department of Employment and Workplace relations, to work with the local LION Leadership to support 42 effected workers.

The immediate priority is the wellbeing of the workforce. Government will engage closely with LION, the union, workers and the hospitality industry to support those impacted. LION is committed to honouring employee benefits and delivering a $500,000 reskilling fund for workers.

LION will continue to operate the Boag’s Brewhouse, and repay a Tasmanian Government grant.


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 the Tasmanian Business Advice Service website 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 on their factsheet (PDF) or by contacting Business Tasmania.

Retrenched workers and their partners may also be eligible for support from the Australian Government through Workforce Australia. For more information, visit the Workforce Australia website.

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: