The Tasmanian Liberal Government welcomes GFG Alliance’s announcement that it has finalised the purchase of the Tasmanian Electro Metallurgical Company (TEMCO) smelter in Bell Bay.

Premier Peter Gutwein said TEMCO’s Bell Bay manganese alloy smelter plays an important role in the State’s economy, especially in Northern Tasmania.

“As a major regional employer, the securing of the ongoing operation of the smelter and the site’s 250 jobs is welcome news, not only by TEMCO employees and their families, but also by the broader community,” Premier Gutwein said.

“As we recover and rebuild from the pandemic, it is crucial business confidence remains strong to secure ongoing investment in Tasmanian industry and jobs, and this announcement will support that.”

Minister for State Growth Michael Ferguson said the Tasmanian Government worked hard to bring GFG to Tasmania to introduce a range of potential investment opportunities, including TEMCO. The Coordinator General’s team played a strong role on behalf of the Tasmanian Liberal Government.

“We’re pleased GFG’s detailed due diligence has provided it with the confidence to invest in Tasmania, and we look forward to TEMCO continuing to employ a significant number of Tasmanians,” Minister Ferguson said.

“Importantly, the smelter will become a key component of the group’s steel making capability in Australia and globally. This is fantastic for the long term and a credit to the GFG Alliance for having this vision and making this commitment to local employment.”

With GFG Alliance’s goal to be carbon neutral by 2030, it is no surprise that Tasmania’s world-leading renewable energy credentials were a key consideration.