The Tasmanian Government has again urged the Federal Labor Government to intervene to ensure the sustainability of Bell Bay Aluminium.
Minister for Energy and Renewables, Nick Duigan, said the smelter is a cornerstone of Tasmania's economy, directly employing over 600 people and supporting hundreds more through a supply chain of almost 300 local businesses.
"Bell Bay Aluminium contributes significantly to Tasmania's economy, accounting for more than 10 per cent of the state's total goods exports.
"I am pleased that Hydro Tasmania has been working with Bell Bay Aluminium on different approaches in the energy supply contract that seeks to find value for both parties.
"The Government expects Hydro to do what it can to put the Tasmanian economy and jobs first, consistent with its new Charter.
"The gap between what Hydro Tasmania is currently offering and what Bell Bay Aluminium needs is not something the Tasmanian taxpayer can fund alone.
"It is important all governments work to together to secure the future of the Bell Bay industrial precinct and Bell Bay Aluminium, one of Australia's greenest smelters."
Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, Felix Ellis said there was uncertainty over the smelter's eligibility to receive support through the Federal Government's Green Aluminium Production Credit.
"Tasmania should not be penalised for already producing green aluminium.
"Bell Bay Aluminium is a key part of Australia's low emissions manufacturing future and deserves the same support as mainland smelters.
"Despite our Government seeking assurances from the Prime Minister that Bell Bay Aluminium would be eligible on multiple occasions, no response has been received."
Minister Ellis has spoken directly to Federal Labor Member for Bass, Jess Teesdale, and called on Tasmanian Labor members to help make Tasmania's voice heard.
"It is disappointing that Tasmania's Federal Labor members have been missing in action on Bell Bay.
"We urge our Labor colleagues in Canberra to take a Team Tasmania approach and intervene.
"The risk of the smelter's closure cannot be underestimated and this would have profound economic and social consequences for Tasmania.
"Keeping the smelter open is in the national interest, but Tasmania cannot do it alone.
"We need to work together on this. We need the federal government to work with us.
"The Albanese Government must recognise that Tasmanian industry deserves its fair share."
The Tasmanian Government has called on the Federal Government to immediately:
