E-Malt.com News article: Australia: Kirin and Tasmanian Government working together on Boag’s Brewery

The Tasmanian Government says it has secured a series of commitments from Japanese beverage company Kirin Holdings as discussions continue over the future of the historic Boag’s Brewery site in Launceston, The Shout reported on July 17.

The commitments follow meetings between the Tasmanian Government and Kirin, the parent company of Lion, after the announcement of the brewery’s planned closure.

Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff said the Government had raised concerns from employees and the local community directly with Kirin.

“We have advocated for and on behalf of the hardworking Northern Tasmanians who have helped build the Boag’s brand,” Premier Rockliff said.

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

“After advocacy that reflected the community’s view during our meeting in Japan, Kirin has agreed to genuinely consider the further requests in relation to the worker support package.”

Rockliff said Kirin had also committed to working with the Government on the long-term future of the brewery site.

“In addition, Kirin has committed to working constructively with the Government to ensure the future of the Boag’s site delivers positive outcomes for the community.

“I will meet with Lion’s CEO next week to progress discussions on workforce support ahead of the brewery’s closure.

“Workers have always been our priority throughout this process, and we will continue fighting for them.”

According to the Premier, Kirin also reaffirmed its commitment to explore small-batch brewing opportunities with Tasmanian brewers and has given in-principle support to consider the State Government’s proposal to purchase the site.

“Kirin also provided in-principle support to explore in good faith the State’s proposal to purchase the site. Kirin reiterated it and Lion’s commitment to working closely and collaboratively with the Tasmanian Government and City of Launceston in relation to the future use of the site.

“The Boag’s site is part of Tasmania’s industrial and cultural heritage, and any transition must be managed responsibly and with a focus on future economic opportunities.”

The Government and Kirin have also agreed to pursue enabling legislation to support future redevelopment of the precinct.

“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,” Rockliff said.

He said the Government would continue working with Kirin, Lion, employees, unions and local government to secure a long-term future for the site.

“We have fought hard to secure better outcomes for workers and for the community, and these commitments demonstrate a willingness from Kirin to work with Tasmania on a positive path forward,” the Premier said.

“Our Government will continue engaging with Kirin, employees, unions, local government and the community as work progresses on the future of the precinct.

“We want to see a sustainable future for this site, support for workers and new opportunities that strengthen Launceston and Northern Tasmania for decades to come.”


17 July, 2026