Liberty Bell Bay

On 16 July 2026, the administrators advised LBB staff that the consortium is no longer pursuing a purchase and the administration will now shift its attention to winding up the business.

Ernst and Young (EY) were appointed as Administrators, with the objective of stabilising the business and testing the market for a potential sale or recapitalisation.

On 16 July 2026, workers were advised that a consortium that was in exclusive negotiations with EY to purchase the business, had ceased pursuing the sale transaction.

The Tasmanian Government has provided significant support to give LBB the best possible chance of a successful restart. This has included almost $10 million in funding, jointly supported by the Australian and Tasmanian Governments, to assist with employee wages during the administration process, as well as consideration of a joint start-up support package of up to $20 million for an incoming owner. The Tasmanian Government also provided a $20 million loan to the previous owner to facilitate the purchase of manganese ore.

EY, as the Administrators, remain responsible for undertaking consultation with employees in relation to workplace changes.

LBB employees should seek advice based on their individual circumstances. General information and guidance is available on the Fair Work Ombudsman website: https://www.fairwork.gov.au/

Pouring hot liquid in a factory.

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 or by contacting Business Tasmania.

Employees and their families can also access a range of support through the Australian Government’s Department of Employment and Workplace Relations. For more information, visit: https://www.dewr.gov.au/employment/announcements/support-liberty-bell-bay-employees-and-their-families

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: