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The Tasmanian Government has appointed receivers and managers to protect a manganese ore stockpile, following defaults under a loan agreement to assist the Liberty Bell Bay manganese smelter restart. The $20 million loan, provided in August, aimed to support workers and local suppliers.

Despite this support, the smelter, owned by GFG Alliance, has remained idle, leading to financial uncertainty and job losses. Minister Felix Ellis emphasized the need to protect public funds and maintain the secured position of the loan.

He reassured that Liberty Bell Bay continues as a commercial operation, and the broader business and workforce are not under receivership. The government aims to preserve options for future operations and remains open to discussions with credible proponents to support jobs and regional stability.