Media release - Workers, Families must be well supported: Armitage

Tuesday, 2 June 2026

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Independent Legislative Council Member for Launceston, the Hon. Rosemary Armitage MLC, has expressed deep disappointment at Lion’s proposal to shut down brewing at the historic James Boag’s Brewery. 

Ms Armitage said the State and Federal Governments must support affected workers and their families, and work with Lion and the City of Launceston Council to secure a future for the site that leaves a lasting legacy for Northern Tasmania. 

“For generations, James Boag’s has supported our local economy, strengthened tourism, and been a source of pride for our community. The prospect of brewing operations ending at this site after 145 years is a major blow to our city and our region,” Ms Armitage said.  

“My immediate thoughts are with the 42 workers and their families who are now facing real uncertainty about their future.”  

Ms Armitage called on the Tasmanian and Australian Governments to step in with coordinated support for affected workers and families, including job transition services, retraining and reskilling opportunities, and practical assistance to help people move into secure employment as quickly as possible. 

“Families must come first. No worker should be left to carry the burden of this decision alone. People have mortgages to pay, bills to meet and families to support, and governments at every level must be focused on helping them through this,” Ms Armitage said. 

“These are hardworking Tasmanians who have shown extraordinary loyalty, skill and pride in their work, and they deserve every possible support.”  

Ms Armitage acknowledged Lion’s commitment to honour employee entitlements and establish a $500,000 reskilling fund for workers, alongside a $500,000 community fund, with an additional commitment to repay the $1 million Tasmanian Government grant for the Boag’s brewhouse redevelopment. 

Furthermore, Ms Armitage said that the future of the Boag’s site must not be left to drift. 

“This is a landmark site in the heart of Launceston, on the banks of the North Esk River, and it deserves a serious plan for what comes next,” Ms Armitage said. 

“If Lion will not keep brewing here, then the State Government, the Federal Government, Lion and the City of Launceston Council must work together to repurpose the site in a way that respects its heritage, supports jobs and economic activity, and leaves a legacy that Northern Tasmania can be proud of.” 

“To every current and former Boag’s worker, I say thank you. Our community stands with you, and we will keep fighting for a future that honours what you have built.” 

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Inquiries: Contact Rosemary Armitage MLC on 0419 341 178 or email Rosemary.Armitage@parliament.tas.gov.au for more information or to arrange an interview. 

About Rosemary:  The Hon. Rosemary Armitage MLC is the Independent Member for Launceston in the Legislative Council and has held this position since being elected in 2011.