Liberty Bell Bay Manganese Smelter in Tasmania Enters Voluntary Administration Amid ASIC Intervention

Liberty Bell Bay, Australia's only manganese smelter, has entered voluntary administration after ASIC's intervention. Ernst and Young has been appointed as administrator and will collaborate with governments and unions to maintain operations and secure funding. The smelter's future is uncertain, affecting approximately 216 employees. Previously owned by GFG Alliance, it had failed to lodge financial statements for five years and had received a $20 million loan from the Tasmanian government.

Published Mar 23, 2026

Liberty Bell Bay, located in Tasmania, has entered voluntary administration after the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) intervened due to the company's failure to submit financial statements for five years. Ernst and Young has been appointed as the administrator and will work with local governments and unions to secure funding and ensure ongoing operations.

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The existing management team will remain in place as they address the financial challenges. Approximately 216 jobs are at risk. GFG Alliance, the parent company, faced financial difficulties, including a $20 million loan from the Tasmanian government and previous operational issues since acquiring the smelter in 2020.