Following today’s announcement of the closure of Liberty Bell Bay, the state government has announced a range of support options for the impacted workers.
West Tamar Council is mindful that a significant portion of the LBB workforce resides in the West Tamar.
For anyone impacted by today’s announcement, Council has a Hardship Policy in place for residents experiencing genuine financial hardship.
You can find details of the hardship policy on our website here: https://www.wtc.tas.gov.au/financial-hardship-application/
Council encourages those impacted workers, contractors and their families to contact our offices to discuss the assistance and support that may be available.
Details of State Government assistance
Liberty Bell Bay 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/
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 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:
Beyond Blue | Phone: 1300 224 636
Lifeline | Phone: 131114
Rural Alive and Well (RAW) | Phone: 1800 729 827