Liberty Bell Bay

Liberty Bell Bay (LBB) has not been in production since early June 2025. On 23 March 2026, LBB was placed into voluntary administration following ongoing operational and financial challenges.

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 27 May 2026, the Administrators entered into exclusive negotiations with a consortium headed by Adroit Capital to acquire LBB.

Building on previous support provided to the business, including a Tasmanian Government loan to facilitate the purchase of manganese ore, the Tasmanian and Australian Governments jointly contributed $4.6 million in wage funding support. The Governments also offered a further $5 million in wage support, conditional on the consortium funding non‑workforce operating costs.

EY has recently advised that a pathway to a successful sale is now challenging. As a result, EY is considering all options including the closure of LBB.

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: