Tasmanian government proposes buying Boag's Brewery site

The Tasmanian government has put forward a proposal to acquire the iconic Boag's Brewery site in Launceston, signaling a potential intervention to preserve a significant piece of the city's industrial heritage. Premier Jeremy Rockliff met with representatives from Kirin, the Japanese parent company of brewer Lion Australia, in Japan this week to discuss the idea.

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Kirin has provided in-principle support to explore in good faith the state's proposal to purchase the site.

Lion announced last month its decision to close the 145-year-old Launceston facility by November, relocating all production of the well-known Tasmanian beer to its mainland breweries. This closure will result in the loss of 42 local jobs, a significant blow to the community.

Premier Rockliff stated that Kirin has provided "in-principle support to explore in good faith the state's proposal to purchase the site." This marks a new development, as there had been no prior indication of the government's intention to buy the property. Kirin has also reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with the Tasmanian government and the City of Launceston regarding the site's future use.

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Any future planning framework must strike the right balance between preserving the site's heritage, unlocking investment, creating jobs and ensuring the precinct can evolve to meet the needs of future generations.

Details regarding the government's specific plans for the site, including its intended use and financing, remain unclear. However, the government is holding a Northern Tasmanian Economic Summit today, suggesting a broader focus on regional economic development. The Premier also indicated that enabling legislation would be pursued in parliament to facilitate future redevelopment opportunities, balancing heritage preservation with investment and job creation.

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I heard clearly from the workers about how this unexpected decision [to close the site] has impacted them and their families, and the need for more clarity from Kirin and Lion.

Rockliff also addressed the concerns of the affected workers, relaying their situation directly to Kirin. He reported that Kirin has agreed to "genuinely consider the further requests in relation to the worker support package." Discussions are ongoing with Lion's CEO to finalize workforce support measures before the brewery ceases operations. Kirin has also committed to exploring "small batch opportunities" with Tasmanian brewers.

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Kirin has agreed to genuinely consider the further requests in relation to the worker support package.