The Tasmanian government has proposed purchasing the 145-year-old Boag’s Brewery site in Launceston, with in-principle support from Kirin, the Japanese parent company of Lion Australia, which owns the brewery. Premier Jeremy Rockliff confirmed the discussions in a press release after meeting Kirin representatives in Japan, though the government has not yet detailed how it would fund the purchase or what it would use the site for.
Lion Australia announced in July it would close the Launceston brewery by November, shifting production to mainland facilities. The decision followed years of declining beer market demand and high operational costs. The site’s closure would affect 42 local jobs, prompting the United Workers Union to launch a petition urging the company to sell rather than shut down the facility.
Heritage, Jobs, and Development Challenges
The government and Kirin have agreed to pursue legislation to facilitate future redevelopment of the site, which Rockliff described as a “complex” challenge. “Any future planning framework must balance heritage preservation, investment, job creation, and long-term evolution,” he said. The site’s historical significance as part of Tasmania’s industrial legacy complicates efforts to attract private development.
Launceston developer Errol Stewart estimated the site would require $100 million for a major overhaul, emphasizing the need for a coordinated approach. “It’s not going to be done in the next year—it’s probably a 10-year program,” he said, noting the scale of the project. Stewart’s comments align with the government’s focus on “future economic opportunities” but leave unanswered how those goals will align with the brewery’s heritage protections.
Worker Concerns and Uncertain Next Steps
Rockliff said Kirin has agreed to consider “further requests” regarding worker support, following pressure from employees impacted by the closure. The premier plans to meet with Lion’s CEO to address workforce concerns ahead of the November deadline. Meanwhile, the government’s proposal remains vague, with no timeline for finalizing a purchase or revealing alternative uses for the site.
The Northern Tasmanian Economic Summit, held on the same day as the announcement, may provide additional context on the government’s strategy. However, no official details on funding or redevelopment plans have been released.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Boag’s stop operations in Launceston? The brewery will cease local production by November, as announced by Lion Australia in July.
How many jobs are at risk? The closure is expected to impact 42 local jobs, according to sources cited in the government’s statements.
What is the government’s next step? The government has not outlined specific actions but has indicated it will work with Kirin to explore redevelopment opportunities through legislative measures.
What role could the community play in shaping the site’s future?
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